Apparatus and methods for monitoring a sleeping subject

ABSTRACT

Apparatus and methods are described including using a sensor to monitor a sleeping subject and generate a signal in response to the monitoring. A control unit is used to accept an input indicative of a person desiring to perform an activity that is potentially disturbing to the sleep of the subject, analyze the sensor signal, in response to the analyzing, identify a time during which the activity is likely to be less disturbing to the sleep of the subject, relative to another time, and generate a notification indicating a suitability of performing the activity at the identified time. Other applications are also described.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 14/843,021, filed Sep. 2, 2015, entitled “Pregnancy statemonitoring,” which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 14/726,706, filed Jun. 1, 2015 (published as US 2016/0058428),entitled “Menstrual state monitoring,” which claims the benefit of (i)U.S. Provisional Application 62/045,237, entitled “Monitoring a SleepingSubject,” filed Sep. 3, 2014, (ii) U.S. Provisional Application62/057,250, entitled “Monitoring a Sleeping Subject,” filed Sep. 30,2014, (iii) U.S. Provisional Application 62/088,697, entitled“Monitoring a Sleeping Subject,” filed Dec. 8, 2014, (iv) U.S.Provisional Application 62/102,031, entitled “Monitoring a SleepingSubject,” filed Jan. 11, 2015, and (v) U.S. Provisional Application62/152,902, filed Apr. 26, 2015, entitled “Monitoring a SleepingSubject.

The present application is related to International Patent ApplicationPCT IL/2015/050880 to Shinar (published as WO 16/035073), entitled“Monitoring a sleeping subject,” filed on Sep. 2, 2015.

Each of the above applications is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to monitoring a subject in heror his bed, typically in a home setting. Specifically, some applicationsof the present invention relate to controlling a device or generating analert or notification in response to the subject's sleep state, and/orfor automatically identifying a state of a female subject's menstrualcycle, and/or whether the female subject is in a pregnant ornon-pregnant state.

BACKGROUND

There is great variation in the lengths of women's menstrual cycles. Itis often the case that women would like to know the current phase oftheir menstrual cycle. Of particular interest to many is knowledge ofwhen they are in the “fertile window” which occurs from approximatelyfive days before ovulation until two days after ovulation. Typically,urine tests, calendar-based methods, and symptoms-based methods (inwhich parameters such as cervical mucus, cervical position, and basalbody temperature are measured) are used for such determinations.

Quality and duration of sleep plays an important role in overallphysical and psychological wellbeing. Unfortunately, many subjects havedifficulty falling or staying asleep. In some cases, subjects' sleep maybe disrupted by ambient noise from home appliances or other householdmembers.

SUMMARY OF EMBODIMENTS

In accordance with some applications of the present invention, a sensormonitors a female subject and generates a sensor signal in response tothe monitoring. A computer processor receives the sensor signal and, inresponse to analyzing the sensor signal, automatically identifies amenstrual state of the subject, and/or a pregnancy state of the subject(i.e., whether the subject is in a pregnant or a non-pregnant state).For example, the computer processor may identify an aspect of the sensorsignal, such as a cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal, and/or arespiration-related aspect of the sensor signal, and may perform theidentification of the subject's state in response thereto. In responseto determining the subject's menstrual state, and/or pregnancy state,the computer processor generates an output.

Typically, the sensor performs monitoring of the subject withoutcontacting the subject or clothes the subject is wearing, and/or withoutviewing the subject or clothes the subject is wearing. For example, thesensor may perform the monitoring without having a direct line of sightof the subject's body, or the clothes that the subject is wearing.Further typically, the sensor performs monitoring of the subject withoutrequiring subject compliance (i.e., without the subject needing toperform an action to facilitate the monitoring that would not haveotherwise been performed). It is noted that, prior to the monitoring,certain actions (such as purchasing the sensor and placing the sensorunder the subject's bed) may need to be performed by the subject. Theterm “without requiring subject compliance” should not be interpreted asexcluding such actions. Rather the term “without requiring subjectcompliance” should be interpreted as meaning that, once the sensor hasbeen purchased, placed in a suitable position and activated, the sensorcan be used to monitor the subject (e.g., to monitor the subject duringrepeated monitoring sessions), without the subject needing to performany actions to facilitate the monitoring that would not have otherwisebeen performed.

Typically, the sensor is disposed on or within the subject's bed, andconfigured to monitor the subject automatically, while she is in herbed. For example, the sensor may be disposed underneath the subject'smattress such that the subject is monitored while she is lying upon themattress, and while carrying out her normal sleeping routine, withoutthe subject needing to perform an action to facilitate the monitoringthat would not have otherwise been performed.

For some applications, the sensor is a non-temperature sensor (i.e., thesensor is not configured to measure a temperature of the subject).Typically, the computer processor is configured to identify thesubject's menstrual state and/or pregnancy state without determining atemperature of the subject.

In response to determining the subject's menstrual state and/orpregnancy state, the computer processor generates an output. Forexample, the computer processor may drive an output device (e.g., amonitor, or the screen of a tablet device or a smartphone) to display(or otherwise output) an output that is indicative of the identifiedmenstrual state and/or pregnancy state. Alternatively or additionally,the processor may drive an output device (e.g., a monitor, or the screenof a tablet device or a smartphone) to display (or otherwise output) anoutput that is indicative of a recommended action to be taken by theuser (e.g., “intercourse is recommended within the next 48 hours”),based upon the identified menstrual state and/or pregnancy state.Alternatively or additionally, the processor may drive a device (such asa room-climate-regulation device) in the subject's bedroom to perform afunction or to change a parameter of its functioning in response to theidentified menstrual state and/or pregnancy state.

Applications of the present invention include apparatus for controllingthe playing of music for a subject who is sleeping or is trying to fallasleep. In response to historical data obtained from the subject and tothe monitoring of the subject by a sensor, the apparatus controls aproperty (e.g., a frequency) of the music, e.g., in order to facilitatethe slowing of the subject's heart rate and thus help the subject fallasleep.

Applications of the present invention also include apparatus forfacilitating the provision of care by a care-provider for acare-receiver. The apparatus monitors sleep of the care-provider andsleep of the care-receiver, and drives an alerting device to wake thecare-provider at an opportune time for care-giving, e.g., when bothparties are in a light stage of sleep.

Applications of the present invention also include apparatus and methodsfor facilitating a subject's sleep, such as by controlling noisy homeappliances in response to the subject's stage of sleep, and/or byactivating a white-noise generator or a noise-cancelation device when anoisy home appliance is activated.

Applications of the present invention also include apparatus formonitoring sleep of a baby in order to facilitate the provision of careto the baby, and/or in order to reduce the baby's disturbances to othermembers of the household, and/or in order to reduce disturbances tosleep of the baby.

Applications of the present invention also include apparatus forprioritizing care-provision tasks for a plurality of patients in ahospital. The apparatus prioritizes the tasks in response to therespective sleep stages of the patients, such that, for example, apatient who is awake may be provided for before a patient who is asleep.

There is therefore provided, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention, apparatus for use with a speaker, the apparatusincluding:

-   -   a sensor configured to monitor a subject and to generate a        sensor signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   control a property of a sound signal, in response to (a) the            analyzing of the sensor signal, and (b) a historical            physiological parameter of the subject that was exhibited in            response to a historical sound signal, and        -   drive the speaker to play the sound signal.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to:

-   -   at a first time, set the property of the sound signal to a        particular setting, and drive the speaker to play the sound        signal, and    -   at a second time following the first time, in response to (a)        the sensor signal indicating that the subject has awakened        prematurely, and (b) the subject having fallen asleep at the        first time in response to the setting of the property to the        particular setting:        -   set the property of the sound signal to the particular            setting, and        -   drive the speaker to play the sound signal.

For some applications, the apparatus is for use with a mechanismselected from the group consisting of: a vibrating mechanism, and arocking mechanism, and the control unit is further configured to controlthe selected mechanism in response to the analyzing of the sensorsignal.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to:

-   -   at least by analyzing the sensor signal, ascertain that the        subject is trying to fall asleep, and    -   control the property of the sound signal, in response thereto.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to:

-   -   by analyzing the sensor signal, ascertain a sleep stage of the        subject, and    -   control the property of the sound signal, in response to the        ascertained sleep stage.

For some applications, the historical physiological parameter isselected from the group consisting of: a quality of sleep, atime-to-fall-asleep, a heart-rate-variability, a change in heart rate, achange in respiratory rate, a change in heart-rate-variability, a changein blood pressure, a rate of change in heart rate, a rate of change inrespiratory rate, a rate of change in heart-rate-variability, and a rateof change in blood pressure, the control unit being configured tocontrol the property of the sound signal in response to the selectedhistorical physiological parameter.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to select contentof the sound signal in response to a manual input.

For some applications, the property is selected from the groupconsisting of: content, genre, volume, frequency, and phase-shift, thecontrol unit being configured to control the selected property.

For some applications:

-   -   the selected property is the frequency, and    -   the control unit is configured to control the frequency of the        sound signal by setting the frequency to be an offset less than        a rate selected from the group consisting of: a heart rate of        the subject, and a respiratory rate of the subject,    -   the control unit being configured to control the offset in        response to analyzing the sensor signal.

For some applications, the selected property is a phase-shift withrespect to a signal selected from the group consisting of: a cardiacsignal of the subject, and a respiratory signal of the subject, thecontrol unit being configured to control the phase-shift with respect tothe selected signal.

There is additionally provided, in accordance with some applications ofthe present invention, apparatus for use with an alerting device, theapparatus including:

-   -   at least one sensor configured to monitor a care-provider and a        care-receiver, and to generate a signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the signal,        -   in response thereto, drive the alerting device to alert the            care-provider to provide care for the care-receiver.

For some applications, the at least one sensor is configured to monitorthe care-provider and the care-receiver without contacting or viewingthe care-provider, without contacting or viewing clothes thecare-provider is wearing, without contacting or viewing thecare-receiver, and without contacting or viewing clothes thecare-receiver is wearing.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to drive thealerting device to alert the care-provider in response to ascertaining,by analyzing the signal, (a) a sleep stage of the care-provider, and (b)a sleep stage of the care-receiver.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to drive thealerting device to alert the care-provider in response to historicalsleep-related data of a person selected from the group consisting of:the care-provider, and the care-receiver.

There is further provided, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention, apparatus for use with a mechanism selected from thegroup consisting of: a vibrating mechanism, and a rocking mechanism, theapparatus including:

-   -   a sensor configured to monitor a subject and to generate a        sensor signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the sensor signal, and        -   control the selected mechanism in response thereto by            sending a control signal to the selected mechanism.

For some applications, in response to analyzing the sensor signal, thecontrol unit is configured to:

-   -   ascertain that the subject is not sleeping, and    -   activate the selected mechanism in response thereto.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to control theselected mechanism, further in response to historical sleep-related dataof the subject.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to:

-   -   at a first time:        -   vary a parameter of the selected mechanism, the parameter            being selected from the group consisting of: a vibration            frequency, a vibration amplitude, a rocking frequency, and a            rocking amplitude, and        -   by analyzing the sensor signal, identify a value of the            selected parameter that is more conducive to sleep of the            subject, relative to other values, and    -   at a second time following the first time, set the selected        parameter to the identified value.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to:

-   -   at a first time, set a parameter of the selected mechanism to a        particular value by sending the control signal to the selected        mechanism, and    -   at a second time following the first time, in response to (a)        the sensor signal indicating that the subject has awakened        prematurely, and (b) the subject having fallen asleep at the        first time in response to the setting of the parameter to the        particular value, set the parameter of the selected mechanism to        the particular value.

There is additionally provided, in accordance with some applications ofthe present invention, a method for use with a home appliance, themethod including:

-   -   using a sensor to monitor sleep of a subject and to generate a        signal in response thereto; and    -   using a control unit:        -   analyzing the signal,        -   in response thereto, ascertaining a sleep stage of the            subject, and        -   in response thereto, controlling the home appliance.

For some applications, using the sensor includes using a motion sensor.

For some applications, using the sensor to monitor the sleep of thesubject includes using the sensor to monitor the sleep of the subjectwithout contacting or viewing the subject, and without contacting orviewing clothes the subject is wearing.

For some applications, controlling the home appliance includescontrolling the home appliance in response to historical sleep-relateddata of the subject.

For some applications, the home appliance is selected from the groupconsisting of: a washing machine, a dryer, an air conditioner, a heater,a refrigerator, a freezer, and a dishwasher, the method includingcontrolling the selected home appliance.

For some applications, controlling the home appliance includesinhibiting activation of the home appliance, in response to ascertainingthat the sleep stage of the subject is a light-sleep stage.

For some applications, controlling the home appliance includesactivating the home appliance, in response to ascertaining that thesleep stage of the subject is a slow-wave sleep stage.

There is further provided, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention, apparatus for use with a first noise-making deviceand a second noise-making device, the apparatus including:

-   -   a sensor configured to monitor sleep of a subject and to        generate a sensor signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   receive a device signal from the second noise-making device,        -   in response to (a) analyzing the sensor signal, and (b) the            device signal, ascertain that the subject is likely to            awaken due to an upcoming activation of the second            noise-making device, and        -   in response thereto, activate the first noise-making device.

There is additionally provided, in accordance with some applications ofthe present invention, apparatus including:

-   -   a sensor configured to monitor sleep of a baby, and to generate        a signal in response thereto;    -   an electromechanical arm; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the signal, and        -   in response thereto, drive the electromechanical arm to            deliver a comfort-inducing object to the baby.

For some applications, the sensor is configured to monitor the sleep ofthe baby without contacting or viewing the baby, and without contactingor viewing clothes the baby is wearing.

There is further provided, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention, apparatus including:

-   -   a sensor configured to monitor a baby, and to generate a signal        in response thereto; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the signal,        -   in response thereto, ascertain that a mouth of the baby is            performing a sucking motion, and        -   in response thereto, generate an alert.

For some applications, the sensor is configured to monitor the sleep ofthe baby without contacting or viewing the baby, and without contactingor viewing clothes the baby is wearing.

There is further provided, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention, apparatus including:

-   -   a sensor configured to monitor a baby, and to generate a signal        in response thereto;    -   an electromechanical arm; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the signal,        -   in response thereto, ascertain that a mouth of the baby is            performing a sucking motion, and        -   in response thereto, drive the electromechanical arm to            deliver a comfort-inducing object to the baby.

For some applications, the sensor is configured to monitor the babywithout contacting or viewing the baby, and without contacting orviewing clothes the baby is wearing.

There is further provided, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention, a method including:

-   -   using a sensor to monitor sleep of a subject, and to generate a        signal in response thereto; and    -   using a control unit:        -   accepting an input indicative of a person desiring to            perform an activity that is potentially disturbing to the            sleep of the subject,        -   analyzing the signal,        -   in response to analyzing the signal, identifying a time            during which the activity is likely to be less disturbing to            the sleep of the subject, relative to another time, and        -   generating a notification indicating a suitability of            performing the activity at the identified time.

For some applications, using the sensor includes using a motion sensor.

There is further provided, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention, apparatus for use with a plurality of patientsrequiring respective care-provision tasks, the apparatus including:

-   -   a plurality of sensors configured to monitor sleep of the        patients, and to generate a plurality of signals in response        thereto; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the signals,        -   in response thereto, ascertain respective sleep stages of            the patients,        -   in response to the respective sleep stages, determine a            prioritization of at least one of the care-provision tasks            over at least one other of the care-provision tasks, and        -   generate an output indicative of the prioritization.

For some applications, the apparatus further includes a location sensingsystem that includes a plurality of location sensors, the locationsensing system being configured to:

-   -   identify respective locations of a plurality of care-providers,        and    -   generate a location-sensing-system signal in response thereto,    -   the control unit being configured to determine the        prioritization further in response to the        location-sensing-system signal.

There is further provided, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention, apparatus for ascertaining that a subject is likelyto be resting on a resting surface, the apparatus including:

-   -   a sensor configured to monitor a resting surface and to generate        a sensor signal in response thereto; and    -   a processor configured to:        -   identify a level of correspondence between the sensor signal            and a signal generated by a handheld telecommunications            device of the subject, and        -   in response to the level of correspondence, generate an            output that is indicative of whether the subject is likely            to be resting on the resting surface.

For some applications, the processor is configured to:

-   -   ascertain, for a plurality of time periods, (a) a number N1 of        the time periods during which the level of correspondence        between the sensor signal and the signal generated by the        handheld telecommunications device is greater than a        correspondence threshold, and (b) a number N2 of the time        periods during which the level of correspondence between the        sensor signal and the signal generated by the handheld        telecommunications device is not greater than the correspondence        threshold, and    -   generate the output in response to a relationship between N1 and        N2.

For some applications, the processor is configured to generate theoutput in response to a ratio of N1 to N2.

For some applications, the processor is further configured to, byperiodically analyzing the signal generated by the telecommunicationsdevice, ascertain that the telecommunications device is periodicallyused by the subject when the subject is not on the resting surface, andthe processor is configured to identify the level of correspondence atleast partially in response thereto.

For some applications, the telecommunications device includes adevice-movement sensor configured to detect movement of thetelecommunications device and to generate a device-movement signal inresponse thereto, and the processor is configured to:

-   -   identify the level of correspondence between the sensor signal        and the signal generated by the handheld telecommunications        device of the subject by identifying a level of correspondence        between the sensor signal and the device-movement signal, and    -   in response to the level of correspondence between the sensor        signal and the device-movement signal, generate the output.

For some applications, the processor is configured to:

-   -   by analyzing the sensor signal, ascertain that a person is        resting on the resting surface,    -   by analyzing the device-movement signal, ascertain that the        telecommunications device is not moving,    -   in response thereto, ascertain that the subject is likely to be        resting on the resting surface, and    -   in response thereto, generate the output.

For some applications, the processor is configured to:

-   -   by analyzing the sensor signal, ascertain that a person is        resting on the resting surface,    -   by analyzing the device-movement signal, ascertain that the        telecommunications device is moving,    -   in response thereto, ascertain that the subject is not likely to        be resting on the resting surface, and    -   in response thereto, generate the output.

For some applications, the signal generated by the handheldtelecommunications device includes a usage signal indicative of whetherthe telecommunications device is being used, and the processor isconfigured to:

-   -   identify the level of correspondence between the sensor signal        and the signal generated by the handheld telecommunications        device of the subject by identifying a correspondence between        the sensor signal and the usage signal, and    -   in response to the correspondence between the sensor signal and        the usage signal, generate the output.

For some applications, the processor is configured to:

-   -   by analyzing the sensor signal, ascertain that a person is        resting on the resting surface,    -   by analyzing the usage signal, ascertain that the        telecommunications device is not being used,    -   in response thereto, ascertain that the subject is likely to be        resting on the resting surface, and    -   in response thereto, generate the output.

For some applications, the processor is configured to:

-   -   by analyzing the sensor signal, ascertain that a person is on        the resting surface,    -   by analyzing the usage signal, ascertain that the        telecommunications device is being used,    -   in response thereto, ascertain that the subject is not likely to        be resting on the resting surface, and    -   in response thereto, generate the output.

There is further provided, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention, apparatus for ascertaining that a subject is likelyto be resting on a resting surface, the apparatus including:

-   -   a sensor configured to monitor a resting surface and to generate        a sensor signal in response thereto; and    -   a processor configured to:        -   by analyzing the sensor signal, ascertain that a person is            resting on the resting surface,        -   in response to a signal generated by a telecommunications            device of the subject, ascertain that the telecommunications            device is within a given distance of the resting surface,        -   in response thereto, ascertain that the subject is likely to            be resting on the resting surface, and        -   in response thereto, generate an output indicating that the            subject is likely to be resting on the resting surface.

For some applications:

-   -   the processor is further configured to receive an input        indicative of coordinates of a location of the resting surface,    -   the signal generated by the telecommunications device is        indicative of coordinates of a location of the        telecommunications device, and    -   the processor is configured to ascertain that the        telecommunications device is within the given distance of the        resting surface by comparing the location of the        telecommunications device with the location of the resting        surface.

There is further provided, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention, apparatus for controlling a room-climate-regulationdevice, the apparatus including:

-   -   a sensor, configured to monitor a subject and generate a sensor        signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit, configured to:        -   analyze the signal,        -   in response thereto, identify a sleep stage of the subject,            and        -   in response to the identified sleep stage, control the            room-climate-regulation device by sending a control signal            to the room-climate-regulation device.

For some applications, the sensor includes a motion sensor configured tosense motion of the subject.

For some applications, the sensor is configured to monitor the subjectwithout contacting or viewing the subject, and without contacting orviewing clothes the subject is wearing.

For some applications:

-   -   the control unit is further configured to ascertain, in response        to analyzing the sensor signal, that a sleep score of the        subject is lower than a baseline value,    -   the apparatus further includes a user interface,    -   the control unit is configured to drive the user interface to        prompt the subject to use the user interface to enter an input        that includes at least one factor that may have caused the sleep        score to be lower than the baseline value, and    -   the control unit is configured to control the        room-climate-regulation device in response to the input.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to control theroom-climate-regulation device by controlling a room-climate-regulationparameter selected from the group consisting of: temperature, humidity,and fan speed.

For some applications, the sensor is configured to monitor the subjectby monitoring a parameter of the subject selected from the groupconsisting of: motion, heart rate, heart rate variability, heartbeatamplitude, respiration rate, respiration amplitude, respiration-cyclevariability, tremor, and left ventricular ejection time.

For some applications, the control unit is further configured to:

-   -   ascertain, in response to analyzing the sensor signal, a sleep        score of the subject, and,    -   in response to the sleep score, control the        room-climate-regulation device.

For some applications, the control unit is further configured to:

-   -   ascertain, in response to analyzing the sensor signal, a sleep        score of the subject, and,    -   in response to the sleep score, generate an output that includes        a suggested setting for the room-climate-regulation device.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to change asetting of the room-climate-regulation device in response to a prematureawakening of the subject.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to:

-   -   differentially identify at least two sleep stages selected from        the group consisting of: a falling-asleep stage, a        beginning-sleep stage, a mid-sleep stage, a premature-awakening        stage, an awakening stage, a light sleep stage, a slow-wave        sleep stage, and a rapid-eye-movement sleep stage, and    -   in response to the differentially identified sleep stages,        control the room-climate-regulation device by sending the        control signal to the room-climate-regulation device.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to, in response tothe identified sleep stage, control a noise-emission of theroom-climate-regulation device even without adjusting a temperaturesetting of the room-climate-regulation device.

For some applications, the room-climate-regulation device includes afan, and the control unit is configured to control the noise-emission ofthe room-climate-regulation device by controlling a rotating speed ofthe fan.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to control thenoise-emission of the room-climate-regulation device further in responseto an ambient noise level.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to reduce a noiselevel of the room-climate-regulation device in response to theidentified sleep stage being a slow-wave sleep stage.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to increase anoise level of the room-climate-regulation device in response to theidentified sleep stage being a slow-wave sleep stage.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to reduce a noiselevel of the room-climate-regulation device in response to theidentified sleep stage not being a slow-wave sleep stage.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to increase anoise level of the room-climate-regulation device in response to theidentified sleep stage not being a slow-wave sleep stage.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to control afrequency of emitted noise of the room-climate-regulation device inresponse to (a) the identified sleep stage, and (b) a rate selected fromthe group consisting of: a heart rate of the subject, and a respiratoryrate of the subject.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to, in response tothe identified sleep stage, control a temperature setting of theroom-climate-regulation device.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to lower thetemperature setting of the room-climate-regulation device in response tothe identified sleep stage being a rapid-eye-movement sleep stage.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to:

-   -   by analyzing the signal, identify an indication of a body        temperature of the subject, and    -   in response to the indication, control the temperature setting.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to:

-   -   by analyzing the signal, ascertain that the subject is        uncomfortable with a current ambient temperature, and    -   in response to the ascertaining, control the temperature        setting.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to ascertain thatthe subject is uncomfortable with the current ambient temperature byidentifying a tremor component of the signal.

For some applications, the apparatus further includes a user interfaceconfigured to accept an input from the subject, the input including atleast two distinct settings for the room-climate-regulation devicecorresponding to respective different sleep stages, and

-   -   the control unit is configured to control the        room-climate-regulation device in response to the input.

For some applications, the control unit is further configured to drivethe user interface to prompt the subject to enter the input, in responseto a change in a parameter selected from the group consisting of: aseason, an ambient temperature, an ambient humidity, and agoing-to-sleep time.

For some applications, the sensor is further configured to sense aweight of a blanket of the subject, and the control unit is furtherconfigured to drive the user interface to prompt the subject to enterthe input, in response to a change in the sensed weight.

For some applications, the control unit is further configured to:

-   -   ascertain, in response to analyzing the sensor signal, a sleep        score of the subject, and    -   drive the user interface to prompt the subject to enter the        input, in response to the ascertained sleep score being lower        than a baseline value.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to ascertain thesleep score by computing a score from at least one parameter selectedfrom the group consisting of: a time to fall asleep, a duration ofsleep, a percentage of in-bed time during which the subject is sleeping,and a measure of relaxation of the subject.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to:

-   -   for each of a plurality of different settings of the        room-climate-regulation device, ascertain, in response to        analyzing the sensor signal, a sleep score of the subject; and    -   in response thereto, generate an output indicative of a setting        that is conducive to a higher sleep score, relative to other        settings.

For some applications, the apparatus further includes a user interfaceconfigured to accept an input from the subject, and the control unit isconfigured to set the plurality of different settings in response to theinput.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to set theplurality of different settings even without any deliberate input fromthe subject.

For some applications:

-   -   the subject is a first subject who shares a room with a second        subject,    -   the apparatus further includes a second sensor, configured to        monitor the second subject and generate a second sensor signal        in response thereto, and    -   the control unit is configured to:        -   analyze the second sensor signal,        -   in response thereto, identify a sleep stage of the second            subject, and        -   in response to the respective identified sleep stages of the            subjects, control the room-climate-regulation device by            sending a control signal to the room-climate-regulation            device.

For some applications:

-   -   the apparatus is for use with a room-climate-regulation device        that can simultaneously maintain a first setting in a vicinity        of the first subject, and a second setting, which is different        from the first setting, in a vicinity of the second subject,    -   the control unit being configured to control the        room-climate-regulation device by communicating the first and        second settings to the room-climate-regulation device.

For some applications, the control unit is further configured to:

-   -   ascertain, in response to analyzing the sensor signals,        respective sleep scores of the subjects, and    -   in response to the respective sleep scores, control the        room-climate-regulation device.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to:

-   -   determine a setting of the room-climate-regulation device that        facilitates respective sleep scores of the subjects being equal        to one another, and    -   control the room-climate-regulation device by communicating the        setting to the room-climate-regulation device.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to:

-   -   determine a setting of the room-climate-regulation device, in        response to an average sleep score of the subjects, and    -   control the room-climate-regulation device by communicating the        setting to the room-climate-regulation device.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to:

-   -   determine a setting of the room-climate-regulation device that        maximizes the average sleep score of the subjects, a higher        sleep score being indicative of a more restful sleeping session        relative to a lower sleep score, and    -   control the room-climate-regulation device by communicating the        setting to the room-climate-regulation device.

For some applications:

-   -   the setting is a first setting, and    -   in response to one of the subjects having fallen asleep, the        control unit is configured to communicate a second setting to        the room-climate-regulation device, the second setting being        different from the first setting.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to:

-   -   communicate a first setting to the room-climate-regulation        device in response to one of the sensor signals indicating that        one of the subjects is trying to fall asleep, the first setting        being more conducive to sleep of the one of the subjects,        relative to other settings, and    -   subsequently, in response to the sensor signals indicating        that (a) the one of the subjects has fallen asleep, and (b) the        other one of the subjects is trying to fall asleep, communicate        a second setting to the room-climate-regulation device, the        second setting being different from the first setting.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to generate anoutput to the other one of the subjects, the output indicating that theone of the subjects has fallen asleep.

There is further provided, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention, apparatus for controlling a thermoregulation device,the apparatus including:

-   -   a motion sensor, configured to monitor a subject and generate a        motion signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit, configured to:        -   analyze the motion signal, and        -   in response thereto, control a temperature setting of the            thermoregulation device.

There is additionally provided, in accordance with some applications ofthe present invention, apparatus for use with a room-climate-regulationdevice, the apparatus including:

-   -   a sensor, configured to monitor a subject and to generate a        sensor signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit, configured to:        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   in response thereto, identify a rate selected from the group            consisting of: a heart rate of the subject, and a            respiratory rate of the subject, and        -   control a property of emitted noise of the            room-climate-regulation device in response to the identified            rate, the property being selected from the group consisting            of: a frequency, and a phase-shift.

There is further provided, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention, apparatus for use with a vibrating mechanism, theapparatus including:

-   -   a sensor, configured to monitor a subject on a resting surface        and generate a sensor signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit, configured to:        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   in response thereto, identify a posture of the subject, and        -   in response to the identified posture, drive the vibrating            mechanism to vibrate.

For some applications, the control unit is further configured to, inresponse to analyzing the sensor signal, identify a sleep stage of thesubject, and the control unit is configured to drive the vibratingmechanism to vibrate, further in response to the identified sleep stage.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to drive thevibrating mechanism to vibrate in response to the identified sleep stagebeing selected from the group consisting of: a sleep stage that iswithin 5 minutes of an onset of a rapid-eye-movement sleep stage, and asleep stage that is within 5 minutes of an end of a rapid-eye-movementsleep stage.

For some applications:

-   -   the sensor is a first sensor and the sensor signal is a first        sensor signal,    -   the apparatus further includes a second sensor configured to        monitor a partner of the subject and generate a second sensor        signal in response thereto,    -   the control unit is further configured to analyze the second        sensor signal and, in response thereto, identify a sleep stage        of the partner, and    -   the control unit is configured to drive the vibrating mechanism        to vibrate, further in response to the identified sleep stage of        the partner.

For some applications:

-   -   the control unit is further configured to identify an episode of        the subject selected from the group consisting of: a snoring        episode, and an apnea episode, and    -   the control unit is configured to drive the vibrating mechanism        to vibrate, further in response to the identified episode.

For some applications, the vibrating mechanism includes a vibratingwristwatch, and the control unit is configured to drive the vibratingmechanism to vibrate by driving the vibrating wristwatch to vibrate.

There is further provided, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention, apparatus for use with an adjustable resting surface,the apparatus including:

-   -   a sensor, configured to monitor a subject on the resting surface        and generate a sensor signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit, configured to:        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   in response thereto, identify a posture of the subject, and        -   in response to the identified posture, adjust a parameter of            the resting surface by communicating a signal to the resting            surface.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to, in response tothe identified posture, adjust an angle of the resting surface.

For some applications, the control unit is further configured to, inresponse to analyzing the sensor signal, identify a sleep stage of thesubject, and the control unit is configured to adjust the parameter ofthe resting surface, further in response to the identified sleep stage.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to adjust theparameter of the resting surface in response to the identified sleepstage being selected from the group consisting of: a sleep stage that iswithin 5 minutes of an onset of a rapid-eye-movement sleep stage, and asleep stage that is within 5 minutes of an end of a rapid-eye-movementsleep stage.

For some applications:

-   -   the sensor is a first sensor and the sensor signal is a first        sensor signal,    -   the apparatus further includes a second sensor configured to        monitor a partner of the subject and generate a second sensor        signal in response thereto,    -   the control unit is further configured to analyze the second        sensor signal and, in response thereto, identify a sleep stage        of the partner, and    -   the control unit is configured to adjust the parameter of the        resting surface, further in response to the identified sleep        stage of the partner.

For some applications:

-   -   the control unit is further configured to identify an episode of        the subject selected from the group consisting of: a snoring        episode, and an apnea episode, and    -   the control unit is configured to adjust the parameter of the        resting surface, further in response to the identified episode.

For some applications:

-   -   the control unit is further configured to identify a coughing        episode of the subject, and    -   the control unit is configured to adjust the parameter of the        resting surface, further in response to the identified coughing        episode.

For some applications, the adjustable resting surface includes aninflatable pillow, and the control unit is configured to adjust aparameter of the resting surface by adjusting a parameter of theinflatable pillow.

There is further provided, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention, a method for monitoring a subject, the methodincluding:

-   -   using a motion sensor located in a vehicle, in a seat of the        subject, sensing physiological activity of the subject, and        generating a motion signal in response thereto; and    -   using a control unit:        -   analyzing the motion signal; and        -   generating an output in response thereto.

For some applications, the vehicle is an airplane, the method includingusing the motion sensor in the airplane.

For some applications, analyzing the motion signal includes identifyinga likelihood of a clinical event of the subject, and generating theoutput includes generating an alert in response to the identifiedlikelihood.

For some applications, analyzing the motion signal includes identifyinga likelihood that the subject is a carrier of a disease, and generatingthe output includes generating an alert in response to the identifiedlikelihood.

For some applications, analyzing the motion signal includes identifyingthat the subject is drowsy, and generating the output includesgenerating an alert in response to identifying that the subject isdrowsy.

For some applications, analyzing the motion signal includes identifyingthat the subject is sleeping, and generating the output includesgenerating the output in response to identifying that the subject issleeping.

For some applications, analyzing the motion signal includes identifyingan elevated stress level of the subject, and generating the outputincludes generating an alert in response to the elevated stress level.

For some applications, the vehicle includes a multi-person vehicle,

-   -   the method further including:        -   using at least one other motion sensor located in the            vehicle, in a seat of another subject, sensing physiological            activity of the other subject, and generating another motion            signal in response thereto; and        -   using the control unit, analyzing the other motion signal,            and, in response thereto, identifying an elevated stress            level of the other subject,        -   generating the output including generating an alert in            response to each of the subjects having an elevated stress            level.

There is additionally provided, in accordance with some applications ofthe present invention, a method for monitoring a subject, the methodincluding:

-   -   using a motion sensor located in a casino, in a seat of the        subject, sensing physiological activity of the subject, and        generating a motion signal in response thereto; and    -   using a control unit:        -   analyzing the motion signal; and        -   generating an alert in response thereto.

For some applications, analyzing the motion signal includes identifyingan elevated stress level of the subject, and generating the alertincludes generating an alert in response to the elevated stress level.

For some applications, the method further includes:

-   -   using at least one other motion sensor located in the casino, in        a seat of another subject, sensing physiological activity of the        other subject, and generating another motion signal in response        thereto; and    -   using the control unit, analyzing the other motion signal, and,        in response thereto, identifying an elevated stress level of the        other subject,    -   generating the alert including generating an alert in response        to each of the subjects having an elevated stress level.

There is further provided, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention, apparatus for use with (i) a plurality of subjectssharing a common area, and (ii) a controllable mechanism, the apparatusincluding:

-   -   one or more physiological sensors configured to monitor        conditions of the subjects and to generate, in response thereto,        a respective sensor signal for each one of the subjects; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the sensor signals,        -   in response to analyzing the sensor signals, determine a            prioritization of the condition of one of the subjects over            the condition of another one of the subjects,        -   in response to the prioritization, decide whether to control            the controllable mechanism, and        -   in response to (i) the prioritization, and (ii) deciding to            control the controllable mechanism, control the controllable            mechanism by communicating a control signal to the            controllable mechanism.

For some applications, the controllable mechanism is aroom-climate-regulation device, the control unit being configured tocontrol the room-climate-regulation device.

For some applications, the controllable mechanism is an adjustableresting surface, the control unit being configured to control theadjustable resting surface.

For some applications, the controllable mechanism is a sound-playingdevice, the control unit being configured to control the sound-playingdevice.

For some applications, the controllable mechanism is an illuminationdevice, the control unit being configured to control the illuminationdevice.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to determine theprioritization in response to determining that (a) one of the subjectsis sleeping, and (b) another one of the subjects is not sleeping.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to determine theprioritization in response to a health condition of at least one of thesubjects.

For some applications, the apparatus further includes at least onebody-temperature sensor configured to (i) detect a body temperature ofthe at least one of the subjects, and (ii) generate a body-temperaturesignal in response thereto, the control unit being further configured todetermine the health condition of the at least one of the subjects inresponse to the body-temperature signal.

For some applications, the apparatus further includes a user interfaceconfigured to accept an input from a user, the control unit beingconfigured to determine the prioritization further in response to theinput.

For some applications:

-   -   the physiological sensors are configured to monitor comfort of        the subjects, and    -   the control unit is configured to determine the prioritization        by determining a prioritization of comfort of one of the        subjects over comfort of another one of the subjects.

For some applications:

-   -   the physiological sensors are configured to monitor sleep of the        subjects, and    -   the control unit is configured to determine the prioritization        by determining a prioritization of sleep of one of the subjects        over sleep of another one of the subjects.

For some applications:

-   -   controlling the controllable mechanism in a particular manner        is (i) facilitative to sleep of a first one of the subjects,        and (ii) at least potentially detrimental to sleep of a second        one of the subjects, and    -   the control unit is configured to control the controllable        mechanism in the particular manner only if the prioritization        indicates that the sleep of the first one of the subjects is to        be prioritized over sleep of the second one of the subjects.

For some applications, the controllable mechanism is a vibratingmechanism, the control unit being configured to control the vibratingmechanism.

For some applications:

-   -   the control unit is configured to, in response to analyzing the        sensor signals, determine that (i) one of the subjects is        snoring, and (ii) another one of the subjects may be disturbed        by the snoring,    -   controlling the controllable mechanism includes activating a        snoring-inhibition mechanism that is disruptive to sleep of the        snoring subject, and    -   the control unit is configured to activate the        snoring-inhibition mechanism, unless the prioritization        indicates that sleep of the snoring subject is to be prioritized        over sleep of the other one of the subjects.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to:

-   -   identify respective sleep stages of the subjects in response to        analyzing the sensor signals, and    -   determine the prioritization in response to identifying the        respective sleep stages.

For some applications:

-   -   controlling the controllable mechanism in a particular manner        is (i) facilitative to sleep of a first one of the subjects,        and (ii) at least potentially detrimental to sleep of a second        one of the subjects, and    -   the control unit is configured to control the controllable        mechanism in the particular manner only if the second one of the        subjects is not sleeping deeply.

For some applications:

-   -   each of the respective sleep stages is selected from the group        consisting of: a slow-wave sleep stage, a rapid-eye-movement        sleep stage, a light sleep stage, and an awake sleep stage,    -   the control unit is configured to assign:        -   a first rank to a sleep stage selected from the group            consisting of: a slow-wave sleep stage, and a            rapid-eye-movement sleep stage,        -   a second rank, which is greater than the first rank, to a            sleep stage that is not assigned the first rank and that is            selected from the group consisting of: the slow-wave sleep            stage, and the rapid-eye-movement sleep stage,        -   a third rank, which is greater than the second rank, to a            light sleep stage, and        -   a fourth rank, which is greater than the third rank, to an            awake sleep stage, and    -   a likelihood of the control unit prioritizing the sleep of a        first subject over the sleep of a second subject increases with        the rank of the sleep stage of the first subject.

For some applications:

-   -   each of the respective sleep stages is selected from the group        consisting of: a slow-wave sleep stage, a rapid-eye-movement        sleep stage, a light sleep stage, and an awake sleep stage,    -   the control unit is configured to assign:        -   a first rank to a sleep stage selected from the group            consisting of: a slow-wave sleep stage, and a            rapid-eye-movement sleep stage,        -   a second rank, which is greater than the first rank, to a            sleep stage that is not assigned the first rank and that is            selected from the group consisting of: the slow-wave sleep            stage, and the rapid-eye-movement sleep stage,        -   a third rank, which is greater than the second rank, to a            light sleep stage, and        -   a fourth rank, which is greater than the third rank, to an            awake sleep stage, and    -   a likelihood of the control unit prioritizing the sleep of a        first subject over the sleep of a second subject decreases with        the rank of the sleep stage of the first subject.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to:

-   -   in response to analyzing the sensor signals over a plurality of        sleeping sessions, identify, for each of the subjects, a        sleep-sensitivity of the subject to at least one phenomenon that        is generally detrimental to sleep, and    -   determine the prioritization in response to the identified        sleep-sensitivities.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to identify thesleep-sensitivity of each of the subjects by identifying an effect ofthe phenomenon on a parameter selected from the group consisting of: aduration of sleep of the subject, and a quality of sleep of the subject.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to be more likelyto prioritize the sleep of a first one of the subjects over the sleep ofa second one of the subjects if the sleep-sensitivity of the firstsubject is higher than the sleep-sensitivity of the second subject,relative to if the sleep-sensitivity of the first subject were nothigher than the sleep-sensitivity of the second subject.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to:

-   -   in response to analyzing the sensor signals, calculate, at a        particular time, a sleep score for each of the subjects, the        sleep score being based on a parameter selected from the group        consisting of: a duration of sleep during an interval preceding        the particular time, and a quality of sleep during an interval        preceding the particular time, and    -   determine the prioritization in response to the respective sleep        scores.

For some applications, at the particular time, the control unit isconfigured to be more likely to prioritize sleep of a first one of thesubjects over sleep of a second one of the subjects if the sleep scoreof the first one of the subjects is lower than the sleep score of thesecond one of the subjects, relative to if the sleep score of the firstone of the subjects were not lower than the sleep score of the secondone of the subjects.

For some applications, controlling the controllable mechanism in aparticular manner is (i) facilitative to sleep of a first one of thesubjects, and (ii) at least potentially detrimental to sleep of a secondone of the subjects, and

-   -   the control unit is configured to control the controllable        mechanism in the particular manner and at the particular time,        in response to the sleep score of the first one of the subjects        being lower than a threshold.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to:

-   -   identify respective sleep stages of the subjects in response to        analyzing the sensor signals, and    -   control the controllable mechanism in the particular manner and        at the particular time in response to the sleep score of the        first one of the subjects being lower than the threshold, only        if the first one of the subjects is not sleeping deeply.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to control thecontrollable mechanism in the particular manner and at the particulartime in response to the sleep score of the first one of the subjectsbeing lower than the threshold, only if (i) the first one of thesubjects is not sleeping deeply, and (ii) the second one of the subjectsis not sleeping deeply.

There is additionally provided, in accordance with some applications ofthe present invention, apparatus for use with an alarm clock for wakinga subject, the apparatus including:

-   -   a sensor configured to monitor a resting surface, and to        generate a signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the signal,        -   in response thereto, determine that, even if the resting            surface is occupied by someone, the resting surface is            likely not being occupied by the subject, and        -   in response thereto, inhibit the alarm clock from generating            an alarm.

For some applications, the control unit is further configured to stopinhibiting the alarm clock from generating an alarm, in response todetermining that the resting surface is likely being occupied by thesubject.

There is further provided, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention, apparatus for use with an alarm clock for waking asubject, the apparatus including:

-   -   a sensor configured to monitor a resting surface, and to        generate a signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit, separate from the alarm clock, and configured,        following a first alarm generated by the alarm clock, to:        -   analyze the signal,        -   in response to analyzing the signal, determine that the            resting surface is likely being occupied by the subject, and        -   in response thereto, drive the alarm clock to generate a            second alarm.

There is additionally provided, in accordance with some applications ofthe present invention, apparatus for use with (i) a first subject and asecond subject sharing a common sleep area, and (ii) an alarm clock, theapparatus including:

-   -   a sensor configured to monitor the second subject and to        generate a sensor signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   accept an input indicative of (i) an earliest desired            awakening time, and (ii) a latest desired awakening time,            for the first subject, and        -   at a time between the earliest desired awakening time and            the latest desired awakening time:            -   analyze the sensor signal,            -   in response thereto, determine a sleep stage of the                second subject,            -   in response to the sleep stage of the second subject,                determine whether to drive the alarm clock to generate                an alarm at the time, and            -   in response to determining to drive the alarm clock to                generate an alarm, drive the alarm clock to generate an                alarm.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to:

-   -   in response to analyzing the sensor signal over a plurality of        sleeping sessions, identify a sleep-sensitivity of the second        subject to at least one phenomenon that is generally detrimental        to sleep, and    -   in response to the identified sleep-sensitivity, determine        whether to drive the alarm clock to generate the alarm.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to identify thesleep-sensitivity of the second subject by identifying an effect of thephenomenon on a parameter selected from the group consisting of: aduration of sleep of the second subject, and a quality of sleep of thesecond subject.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to:

-   -   in response to analyzing the sensor signal, calculate a sleep        score for the second subject, the sleep score being based on a        parameter selected from the group consisting of: a duration of        sleep during an interval preceding the particular time, and a        quality of sleep during an interval preceding the particular        time, and    -   in response to the sleep score, determine whether to drive the        alarm clock to generate the alarm.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to determinewhether to drive the alarm clock to generate the alarm, in response to ahealth condition of the second subject.

There is further provided, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention, apparatus including:

-   -   a sensor configured to measure a clinical parameter of a        patient, and to generate a signal in response thereto;    -   a control unit configured to:        -   receive the signal from the sensor,        -   compare the clinical parameter to a threshold, and        -   in response to the comparison, generate an alert to a            clinician; and    -   a user interface configured to receive an input from the        clinician, the input indicating whether the clinician believes        the alert to have been justified,    -   the control unit being configured to adjust the threshold in        response to the input.

There is additionally provided, in accordance with some applications ofthe present invention, apparatus for use with (i) a common area that isshared by a plurality of subjects, and (ii) a controllable mechanism,the apparatus including:

-   -   at least one sensor configured to monitor the common area and to        generate a sensor signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   in response to analyzing the sensor signal, determine which            subjects of the plurality of subjects are present in the            common area, and        -   in response to the determining, control the controllable            mechanism by communicating a control signal to the            controllable mechanism.

For some applications, the controllable mechanism is aroom-climate-regulation device, the control unit being configured tocontrol the room-climate-regulation device.

For some applications, the common area is a common sleeping area, thecontrol unit being configured, in response to analyzing the sensorsignal, to determine which subjects of the plurality of subjects arepresent in the common sleeping area.

For some applications:

-   -   the plurality of subjects consists of a first subject and a        second subject,    -   the controllable mechanism has at least three settings that are        distinct from one another, and    -   the control unit is configured to:        -   in response to determining that the first subject, but not            the second subject, is present in the common area, set the            controllable mechanism to a first of the settings by            communicating the control signal to the controllable            mechanism,        -   in response to determining that the second subject, but not            the first subject, is present in the common area, set the            controllable mechanism to a second of the settings by            communicating the control signal to the controllable            mechanism, and        -   in response to determining that the first and second            subjects are present in the common area, set the            controllable mechanism to a third of the settings by            communicating the control signal to the controllable            mechanism.

For some applications, the third of the settings is an intermediatesetting between the first and second settings, the control unit beingconfigured to set the controllable mechanism to the intermediate settingin response to determining that the first and second subjects arepresent in the common area.

For some applications, the control unit is further configured toestablish the first of the distinct settings, the second of the distinctsettings, and the third of the distinct settings, in response toanalyzing the sensor signal.

There is additionally provided, in accordance with some applications ofthe present invention, apparatus for monitoring a subject, the apparatusincluding:

-   -   a sensor, configured to monitor the subject during a sleeping        session of the subject, and to generate a sensor signal in        response to the monitoring; and    -   a control unit, configured to:        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   in response to analyzing the sensor signal, identify an end            of a chronologically-first sleep cycle of the subject during            the sleeping session,        -   in response to analyzing the sensor signal, identify an            aspect of the sensor signal exhibited following the end of            the chronologically-first sleep cycle,        -   identify a physiological condition of the subject (i) in            response to the aspect of the sensor signal that is            exhibited following the end of the chronologically-first            sleep cycle, and (ii) substantially not in response to any            aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited before the end            of the chronologically-first sleep cycle, and        -   generate an output indicative of the physiological            condition.

For some applications, the control unit is configured to:

-   -   in response to analyzing the sensor signal, identify an end of a        chronologically-second sleep cycle of the subject during the        sleeping session,    -   in response to analyzing the sensor signal, identify an aspect        of the sensor signal exhibited following the end of the        chronologically-second sleep cycle, and    -   identify the physiological condition of the subject (i) in        response to the aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        following the end of the chronologically-second sleep cycle,        and (ii) substantially not in response to any aspect of the        sensor signal that is exhibited before the end of the        chronologically-second sleep cycle.

There is further provided, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention, apparatus for monitoring a female subject, theapparatus including:

-   -   a sensor, configured to monitor the subject without contacting        the subject or clothes the subject is wearing, and without        viewing the subject or clothes the subject is wearing, and to        generate a sensor signal in response to the monitoring; and    -   a computer processor, configured to:        -   receive the sensor signal,        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   in response to the analyzing, identify a menstrual state of            the subject, and        -   generate an output in response thereto.

For some applications, the computer processor is configured to identifythe subject's menstrual state without determining a temperature of thesubject.

For some applications, the computer processor is configured to identifythe subject's menstrual state by identifying a current menstrual stateof the subject.

For some applications, the computer processor is configured to identifythe subject's menstrual state by predicting an occurrence of a futuremenstrual state of the subject.

For some applications, the computer processor is configured to identifythe menstrual state of the subject, using a machine-learning algorithm.

For some applications, the computer processor is configured to identifythe menstrual state of the subject by identifying that the subject islikely to ovulate in less than 10 days.

For some applications, the computer processor is further configured, inresponse to identifying the menstrual state of the subject, to identifythat the subject is likely to experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS) inless than three days,

-   -   the computer processor being configured to generate the output        in response thereto.

For some applications, the computer processor is configured:

-   -   in response to the analyzing, to identify an aspect of the        sensor signal selected from the group consisting of: a        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal, and a        respiration-related aspect of the sensor signal, and    -   to identify the menstrual state of the subject, in response to        the identified aspect.

There is additionally provided, in accordance with some applications ofthe present invention, apparatus for monitoring a female subject and foruse with a bed, the apparatus including:

-   -   a sensor configured to be disposed upon or within the bed, to        automatically monitor the subject while the subject is in the        bed, and to generate a sensor signal in response to the        monitoring; and    -   a computer processor, configured to:        -   receive the sensor signal,        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   in response to the analyzing, identify a menstrual state of            the subject, and        -   generate an output in response thereto.

For some applications, the bed includes a mattress, and the sensor isconfigured to be disposed underneath the mattress and to automaticallymonitor the subject while the subject is lying upon the mattress.

For some applications, the computer processor is configured to identifythe subject's menstrual state without determining a temperature of thesubject.

For some applications, the computer processor is configured to identifythe subject's menstrual state by identifying a current menstrual stateof the subject.

For some applications, the computer processor is configured to identifythe subject's menstrual state by predicting an occurrence of a futuremenstrual state of the subject.

For some applications, the computer processor is configured to identifythe menstrual state of the subject, using a machine-learning algorithm.

For some applications, the computer processor is configured to identifythe menstrual state of the subject by identifying that the subject islikely to ovulate in less than 10 days.

For some applications:

-   -   the computer processor is further configured, in response to        identifying the menstrual state of the subject, to identify that        the subject is likely to experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS)        in less than three days,    -   the computer processor being configured to generate the output        in response thereto.

For some applications, the computer processor is configured:

-   -   in response to the analyzing, to identify an aspect of the        sensor signal selected from the group consisting of: a        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal, and a        respiration-related aspect of the sensor signal, and    -   to identify the menstrual state of the subject, in response to        the identified aspect.

There is further provided, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention, apparatus for monitoring a female subject, theapparatus including:

-   -   a sensor, configured to monitor the subject and to generate a        sensor signal in response to the monitoring; and    -   a computer processor, configured to:        -   receive the sensor signal,        -   derive a cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal by            analyzing the sensor signal,        -   based upon the derived cardiac-related aspect of the sensor            signal, identify a menstrual state of the subject, and        -   generate an output in response thereto.

For some applications, the computer processor is configured to identifythe subject's menstrual state without determining a temperature of thesubject.

For some applications, the computer processor is configured to identifythe subject's menstrual state by identifying a current menstrual stateof the subject.

For some applications, the computer processor is configured to identifythe subject's menstrual state by predicting an occurrence of a futuremenstrual state of the subject.

For some applications, the computer processor is configured to identifythe menstrual state of the subject, using a machine-learning algorithm.

For some applications, the computer processor is configured to identifythe menstrual state of the subject by identifying that the subject islikely to ovulate in less than 10 days.

For some applications, the computer processor is further configured, inresponse to identifying the menstrual state of the subject, to identifythat the subject is likely to experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS) inless than three days,

-   -   the computer processor being configured to generate the output        in response thereto.

For some applications, the cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signalincludes a heart rate variability (HRV) signal, the computer processorbeing configured to identify the menstrual state of the subject inresponse to the HRV signal.

There is further provided, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention, apparatus for monitoring a female subject, theapparatus including:

-   -   a sensor, configured to monitor the subject without requiring        compliance of the subject, and to generate a sensor signal in        response to the monitoring; and    -   a computer processor, configured to:        -   receive the sensor signal,        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   in response to the analyzing, identify whether the subject            is in a pregnant state or a non-pregnant state, and        -   generate an output in response thereto.

For some applications, the computer processor is configured to identifywhether the subject is in the pregnant state or the non-pregnant statewithout determining a temperature of the subject.

For some applications, the sensor is configured to be disposed upon orwithin a bed of the subject, and is configured to monitor the subjectautomatically while the subject is in her bed.

For some applications, the computer processor is configured to identifywhether the subject is in the pregnant state or the non-pregnant state,using a machine-learning algorithm.

For some applications, the computer processor is configured:

-   -   in response to the analyzing, to identify an aspect of the        sensor signal selected from the group consisting of: a        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal, and a        respiration-related aspect of the sensor signal, and    -   to identify whether the subject is in the pregnant state or the        non-pregnant state, in response to the identified aspect.

The present invention will be more fully understood from the followingdetailed description of applications thereof, taken together with thedrawings, in which:

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of apparatus for monitoring asubject, in accordance with some applications of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing steps of a method for automaticallydetermining a menstrual state and/or a pregnancy state of a femalesubject, in accordance with some applications of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is an exemplary plot of data with which the apparatus may beused, in accordance with some applications of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration showing steps of a method forautomatically determining a menstrual state and/or a pregnancy state ofthe female subject, in accordance with some applications of the presentinvention;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing steps of a method for automaticallydetermining a menstrual state and/or a pregnancy state of the femalesubject that incorporate machine-learning techniques, in accordance withsome applications of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of subject-monitoring apparatus, inaccordance with some applications of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of subject-monitoring apparatus, inaccordance with some applications of the present invention;

FIG. 8 shows a flow chart depicting aspects of the functioning ofsubject-monitoring apparatus, in accordance with some applications ofthe present invention;

FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of apparatus for use with an alertingdevice, in accordance with some applications of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of subject-monitoring apparatusbeing used with a noise-making device, such as a home appliance, inaccordance with some applications of the present invention;

FIG. 11 shows a flow chart depicting aspects of the functioning ofapparatus for use with noise-making devices, in accordance with someapplications of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of a user interface, in accordancewith some applications of the present invention;

FIGS. 13-14 are device-control flow charts, in accordance with someapplications of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a setting-optimization flow chart, in accordance with someapplications of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a schematic illustration of apparatus for use with twosubjects who share a room, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention;

FIG. 17 shows a flow chart depicting aspects of the functioning ofapparatus for use with room-sharing subjects, in accordance with someapplications of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a schematic illustration of apparatus for use with (i) aplurality of subjects sharing a common area, and (ii) a controllablemechanism, in accordance with some applications of the presentinvention;

FIG. 19 is a schematic illustration of apparatus for monitoring sleep ofa baby, in accordance with some applications of the present invention;

FIG. 20 is a schematic illustration of apparatus for use with aplurality of patients requiring respective care-provision tasks, inaccordance with some applications of the present invention;

FIG. 21 shows a flow chart depicting aspects of the functioning ofapparatus for use with a plurality of patients requiring respectivecare-provision tasks, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention;

FIG. 22 is a schematic illustration of apparatus for ascertaining that asubject is likely to be resting on a resting surface, in accordance withsome applications of the present invention;

FIG. 23 is a schematic illustration of a technique for generatingoutput, in accordance with some applications of the present invention;

FIG. 24 is a schematic illustration of apparatus for use with avibrating mechanism and/or an adjustable resting surface, in accordancewith some applications of the present invention;

FIG. 25 is a schematic illustration of apparatus for monitoring asubject in a vehicle, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention;

FIG. 26 shows a flow chart depicting aspects of a method for monitoringa subject in a vehicle, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention;

FIG. 27 is a schematic illustration of apparatus for monitoring asubject in a casino, in accordance with some applications of the presentinvention;

FIG. 28 is a schematic illustration of apparatus for use with an alarmclock for waking a subject, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention; and

FIG. 29 is a schematic illustration of apparatus for monitoring apatient, in accordance with some applications of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Reference is made to FIG. 1 , which is a schematic illustration ofsubject-monitoring apparatus 20, in accordance with some applications ofthe present invention. Apparatus 20 is generally used to monitor asubject 24, while he or she is in his or her bed in a home setting. Forthe applications described with reference to FIGS. 2-5 , subject 24 istypically female. For some applications (e.g., as described withreference to FIG. 29 ), the subject-monitoring apparatus is used in ahospital setting.

Subject-monitoring apparatus 20 comprises a sensor 22 (e.g., a motionsensor) that is configured to monitor subject 24. Sensor 22 may be amotion sensor that is similar to sensors described in U.S. Pat. No.8,882,684 to Halperin, which is incorporated herein by reference. Theterm “motion sensor” refers to a sensor that senses the subject's motion(e.g., motion due to the subject's cardiac cycle, respiratory cycle, orlarge-body motion of the subject), while the term “sensor” refers moregenerally to any type of sensor, e.g., a sensor that includes anelectromyographic sensor and/or an imaging sensor.

Typically, sensor 22 includes a sensor that performs monitoring of thesubject without contacting the subject or clothes the subject iswearing, and/or without viewing the subject or clothes the subject iswearing. For example, the sensor may perform the monitoring withouthaving a direct line of sight of the subject's body, or the clothes thatthe subject is wearing. Further typically, the sensor performsmonitoring of the subject without requiring subject compliance (i.e.,without the subject needing to perform an action to facilitate themonitoring that would not have otherwise been performed). It is notedthat, prior to the monitoring, certain actions (such as purchasing thesensor and placing the sensor under the subject's mattress) may need tobe performed. The term “without requiring subject compliance” should notbe interpreted as excluding such actions. Rather the term “withoutrequiring subject compliance” should be interpreted as meaning that,once the sensor has been purchased, placed in a suitable position andactivated, the sensor can be used to monitor the subject (e.g., tomonitor the subject during repeated monitoring sessions), without thesubject needing to perform any actions to facilitate the monitoring thatwould not have otherwise been performed.

For some applications, sensor 22 is disposed on or within the subject'sbed, and configured to monitor the subject automatically, while she isin her bed. For example, sensor 22 may be disposed underneath thesubject's mattress 26, such that the subject is monitored while she islying upon the mattress, and while carrying out her normal sleepingroutine, without the subject needing to perform an action to facilitatethe monitoring that would not have otherwise been performed.

A computer processor 28, which acts as a control unit that performs thealgorithms described herein, analyzes the signal from sensor 22.Typically, computer processor 28 communicates with a memory 29. For someapplications, computer processor 28 is embodied in a desktop computer30, a laptop computer 32, a tablet device 34, a smartphone 36, and/or asimilar device that is programmed to perform the techniques describedherein (e.g., by downloading a dedicated application or program to thedevice), such that the computer processor acts as a special-purposecomputer processor. For some applications, as shown in FIG. 1 , computerprocessor 28 is a dedicated computer processor that receives (andoptionally analyzes) data from sensor 22, and communicates with computerprocessors of one or more of the aforementioned devices, which act asexternal devices.

For some applications, the subject (or another person, such as acare-giver) communicates with (e.g., sends data to and/or receives datafrom) computer processor 28 via a user interface device 35. Asdescribed, for some applications, computer processor is embodied in adesktop computer 30, a laptop computer 32, a tablet device 34, asmartphone 36, and/or a similar device that is programmed to perform thetechniques described herein. For such applications, components of thedevice (e.g., the touchscreen, the mouse, the keyboard, the speakers,the screen) typically act as user interface device 35. Alternatively, asshown in FIG. 1 , computer processor 28 is a dedicated computerprocessor that receives (and optionally analyzes) data from sensor 22.For some such applications, the dedicated computer processorcommunicates with computer processors of one or more of theaforementioned external devices (e.g., via a network), and the userinterfaces of the external devices (e.g., the touchscreen, the mouse,the keyboard, the speakers, the screen) are used by the subject, as userinterface device 35, to communicate with the dedicated computerprocessor and vice versa. For some applications, in order to communicatewith computer processor 28, the external devices are programmed tocommunicate with the dedicated computer processor (e.g., by downloadinga dedicated application or program to the external device).

For some applications, user interface includes an input device such as akeyboard 38, a mouse 40, a joystick (not shown), a touchscreen device(such as smartphone 36 or tablet device 34), a touchpad (not shown), atrackball (not shown), a voice-command interface (not shown), and/orother types of user interfaces that are known in the art. For someapplications, the user interface includes an output device such as adisplay (e.g., a monitor 42, a head-up display (not shown) and/or ahead-mounted display (not shown), such as Google Glass®), and/or adifferent type of visual, text, graphics, tactile, audio, and/or videooutput device, e.g., speakers, headphones, smartphone 36, or tabletdevice 34. For some applications, the user interface acts as both aninput device and an output device. For some applications, the processorgenerates an output on a computer-readable medium (e.g., anon-transitory computer-readable medium), such as a disk, or a portableUSB drive.

Reference is now made to FIG. 2 , which is a flowchart showing stepsthat are performed by computer processor 28, in accordance with someapplications of the present invention. In a first step 50, the computerprocessor receives the sensor signal from sensor 22. In a second step52, the computer processor analyzes the signal. For example, thecomputer processor may identify an aspect of the sensor signal, such asa cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal, a respiration-relatedaspect of the sensor signal. In a third step 54, based upon the analysisof the sensor signal, the computer processor identifies a menstrualstate and/or a pregnancy state (e.g., a current menstrual state and/orpregnancy state, or a predicted future state) of the subject. Forexample, the computer processor may (i) identify that the subject is ina pregnant state or a non-pregnant state, and/or (ii) identify a currentphase of the subject's menstrual cycle, and/or (iii) identify that thesubject is likely to ovulate soon.

In a fourth step 56, the computer processor generates an output inresponse to the identified menstrual state and/or pregnancy state. Forexample, the computer processor may drive an output device (e.g., asdescribed above) to display (or otherwise output) an output that isindicative of the identified menstrual state and/or pregnancy state (forexample, a smartphone application, running on smartphone 36, may bedriven to display such an output). Alternatively or additionally, theprocessor may drive an output device (e.g., as described above) todisplay (or otherwise output) an output that is indicative of arecommended action to be taken by the user (e.g., “intercourse isrecommended within the next 48 hours”), based upon the identifiedmenstrual state and/or pregnancy state. Alternatively or additionally,the processor may drive a device (such as a room-climate-regulationdevice 44) in the subject's bedroom to perform a function or to change aparameter of its functioning in response to the identified menstrualstate and/or pregnancy state, as described in further detailhereinbelow.

For some applications, sensor 22 is a non-temperature sensor (i.e., thesensor is not configured to measure a temperature of the subject). (Forsome of the applications described hereinbelow, sensor 22 may includetemperature-sensing capabilities.) Typically, the computer processor isconfigured to identify the subject's menstrual state and/or pregnancystate without determining a temperature of the subject.

Reference is now made to FIG. 3 , which is an exemplary plot of datawith which apparatus 20 may be used, in accordance with someapplications of the present invention. In particular, the plot showsexperimental data collected from a particular female subject using anon-contact sensor (i.e., a sensor that performs sensing of the subjectwithout contacting the subject or clothes the subject is wearing). Theplot shows a set of data points corresponding to the average heart rate,measured in heartbeats-per-minutes (BPM), for the subject, over asequence of consecutive sleeping sessions. The approximate time of thesubject's ovulation, as reported by the subject, is marked in the plotwith an enlarged X (at 15 April). As can be seen in the plot, anincrease in the average heart rate of the subject was observedpost-ovulation. The plot of data thus demonstrates that, in response toobserving an increased heart rate, it may be possible to identify thatovulation recently took place. In accordance with the data shown in FIG.3 , in some cases, a subject may experience an increased heart rate,and/or experience other physiological changes (e.g., a change in cardiacpattern) shortly before ovulating; thus, it may also be possible topredict an upcoming ovulation in response to observing an increasedheart rate.

Based upon the above-noted observations, in some applications, step 52of FIG. 2 is performed using the following algorithm. The subject'sheart rate is identified. For example, an average heart rate over aperiod of time (e.g., an average heart rate over a sleeping session) maybe identified. The identified heart rate is then compared to a baselineheart rate. For some applications, step 54 of FIG. 2 (determination ofthe subject's menstrual state and/or pregnancy state) is performed inresponse to the aforementioned comparison. For example, in response toascertaining that the identified heart rate is greater than the baselineheart rate, the computer processor may identify that the subject iswithin a given amount of time (e.g., less than two days) of ovulation.In other words, the computer processor may identify that less than thegiven amount of time has transpired since the subject ovulated, oridentify that it is likely that the subject will ovulate within thegiven amount of time. In general, this output may help the subject withher fertility planning.

In some applications, the computer processor uses the average heart rateof a previous sleeping session as a baseline, and in response to theidentified average heart rate being greater than this baseline, thecomputer processor identifies the recent ovulation or predicts theupcoming ovulation.

The relatively flat portion of the plot of FIG. 3 that precedes theovulation of the subject demonstrates that, for a subject who isgenerally healthy, “normal” variation in average heart rate isrelatively small. Thus, even a relatively small increase in averageheart rate, e.g., an increase of 1-5 heartbeats-per-minute (BPM), may beindicative of a recent or upcoming ovulation. Hence, in someapplications, the computer processor identifies the recent ovulation, orpredicts the upcoming ovulation, even in response to the identifiedheart rate being less than five heartbeats-per-minute greater than thebaseline heart rate.

Typically, if the subject becomes pregnant, the heart rate of thesubject remains elevated, relative to the pre-ovulation heart rate.(Although, as noted above, typically the heart rate of the subject mayincrease shortly before ovulation. Therefore, in this context, the“pre-ovulation heart rate” refers to the normal heart rate of thesubject, prior to the increase.) If the subject does not becomepregnant, on the other hand, the heart rate of the subject drops back toits pre-ovulation level. Hence, in some applications, the computerprocessor performs step 54 of FIG. 2 , by identifying that the subjectis pregnant by ascertaining that the identified heart rate is not lowerthan a post-ovulation baseline heart rate, the post-ovulation baselineheart rate typically being based on a previously-identified elevatedheart rate. For example, with reference to FIG. 3 , the post-ovulationbaseline heart rate might be based on the data point labeled as P0. (Forexample, the post-ovulation baseline might be two BPM less than the BPMof P0, i.e., approximately 56 BPM.) If, several days after P0 wasobserved, the average heart rate of the subject drops below thisbaseline, the computer processor may identify that the subject is notpregnant. Conversely, if, several days after P0 was observed, theaverage heart rate of the subject has not dropped below this baseline,the computer processor may identify that the subject is pregnant.Alternatively or additionally, the computer processor may identifywhether the subject is pregnant by comparing the current heart rate ofthe subject to the subject's pre-ovulation heart rate.

Typically, the post-ovulation baseline heart rate to which the averageheart rate is compared is based on a previously-identified heart ratefrom the same menstrual cycle as the currently-identified heart rate.For example, the computer processor may identify the post-ovulationbaseline heart rate in response to a heart rate of the subject that wasidentified less than fourteen days prior to identifying thecurrently-identified heart rate.

As noted above, alternatively or additionally to identifying acardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal, the computer processor mayidentify a respiration-related aspect of the sensor signal, such as arespiratory rate of the subject. (For example, the computer processormay identify an average respiratory rate of the subject during asleeping session of the subject.) In general, respiratory rate, likeheart rate, typically rises to an elevated level at around the time ofovulation, and typically remains at the elevated level only if thesubject becomes pregnant. Hence, the computer processor may perform step52 of FIG. 2 as described above with respect to heart rate, but inresponse to the identified respiratory rate, mutatis mutandis. Forexample, the computer processor may identify the current phase of themenstrual cycle of the subject (e.g., the computer processor mayidentify that ovulation recently occurred), and/or identify whether thesubject is pregnant, by comparing the identified respiratory rate to abaseline respiratory rate. The use of the respiration-related aspect ofthe sensor signal for step 52 of FIG. 2 may supplement, oralternatively, take the place of, the use of the cardiac-related aspectof the sensor signal.

In some applications, the identified aspect of the sensor signalincludes a heart rate variability (HRV) signal, and the computerprocessor performs step 54 of FIG. 2 in response to the HRV signal. Forexample, in response to the HRV signal, the computer processor mayidentify that the current phase of the subject's menstrual cycle is alate follicular phase. In general, a woman's greatest chances forconceiving begin prior to ovulation, starting with the late follicularphase of her menstrual cycle. (In general, the late follicular phasebegins before ovulation, sometime within five days of ovulation.) Thus,it is generally advantageous for a woman who desires to become pregnantto know that she is in her late follicular phase. In some applications,the late follicular phase is identified in response to an aspect of acomponent of the power spectrum of the HRV signal, e.g., in response tothe component of the power spectrum of the HRV signal having anamplitude that exceeds a threshold. In some applications, the componentof the power spectrum of the HRV signal that is used for identifying thelate follicular phase lies between 0.1 and 0.5 Hz. Alternatively oradditionally, a component that lies between 0.04 and 0.15 Hz, and/or acomponent that lies between 0.008 and 0.04 Hz, may be used to identifythe late follicular phase. In some applications, the computer processoridentifies the late follicular phase in response to a ratio ofpower-spectrum amplitudes; for example, the computer processor mayidentify the late follicular phase in response to a ratio of (i) theamplitude of a 0.04-0.15 Hz component of the spectrum, to (ii) theamplitude of a 0.008-0.04 Hz component.

In some cases, alternatively or additionally to knowing that she is inher late follicular phase, a subject may wish to know her anticipateddate of ovulation. Thus, in some applications, the computer processorperforms step 54 of FIG. 2 , by predicting that it is likely that thesubject will ovulate within a given period of time, e.g., in less than10 days, e.g., in 0.5-5 days. As described hereinabove, the computerprocessor may predict the upcoming ovulation in response to an elevatedheart rate of the subject. Alternatively or additionally to basing theprediction on an elevated heart rate, the computer processor may predictthe upcoming ovulation in response to the HRV signal (e.g., in responseto the power spectrum of the HRV signal).

For some applications, in response to determining the current stage ofthe subject's menstrual cycle (e.g., using techniques described herein),the computer processor generates an output indicative of when it isadvisable for the subject to have intercourse such as to increase herchances of conceiving a baby. Furthermore, there is evidence that havingintercourse close to ovulation or shortly thereafter (e.g., on the dayof ovulation or subsequent thereto) favors conceiving a male baby, whilehaving intercourse several days (e.g., 2-5 days) prior to ovulationfavors conceiving a female baby. Therefore, for some applications, thesubject (or a person related to the subject, such as the subject'spartner) communicates an input to computer processor 28 (e.g., via userinterface device 35) that is indicative of a desire to have a child of agiven gender. In response to determining the current stage of thesubject's menstrual cycle (e.g., using techniques described herein), thecomputer processor generates an output indicative of when it isadvisable for the subject to have intercourse such as to increase herchances of conceiving a baby of the desired gender.

In some applications, the computer processor identifies that the subjectis likely to experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS) within a givenperiod of time, e.g., in more than 0.5 days and/or less than three days.For example, the computer processor may predict the upcoming episode ofPMS in response to the HRV signal (e.g., in response to the powerspectrum of the HRV signal).

In the context of the claims and description of the present application,a phrase such as “within a given amount of time” or “within a givenperiod of time” includes within its scope different levels ofspecificity. For example, for a prediction that the subject will likelyovulate within two days, the computer processor may generate a lessspecific output such as “You will likely ovulate within two days,” or amore specific output such as “You will likely ovulate in approximately1.5 days.” Similarly, a phrase such as “in less than three days”includes within its scope different levels of specificity. For example,for a prediction that PMS will likely occur in less than three days, thecomputer processor may generate a less specific output such as “You willlikely experience PMS in less than three days,” or a more specificoutput such as “You will likely experience PMS in approximately twodays.”

Reference is now made to FIG. 4 , which is a flowchart showingalgorithms that are performed by computer processor 28, in accordancewith some applications of the present invention. The left side of FIG. 4shows some of the above-described algorithms, via which step 52 of FIG.2 is performed, in accordance with some applications of the presentinvention. The right side of FIG. 4 shows examples of menstrual statesand/or pregnancy states that are identified in step 54 of FIG. 2 ,and/or (inside the dashed box on the right side of FIG. 4 ) examples ofdata that are derived based upon the identified menstrual state and/orpregnancy state, in accordance with some applications of the presentinvention. It is noted the scope of the present invention is not limitedto the examples shown in FIG. 4 .

Reference is again made to FIG. 1 . Reference is also made to FIG. 5 ,which is a flowchart showing steps of a procedure that is performed bycomputer processor 28, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention. As described hereinabove, in some applications,apparatus 20 comprises a user interface. For some applications, at alearning step 60 (which includes a plurality of sub-steps, as describedhereinbelow), computer processor 28 uses input from the user interfaceto learn a rule for identifying the condition of the subject. Inparticular, at least once (and typically more than once) prior to theidentification of the currently-identified aspect of the sensor signal,the computer processor (i) receives, via the user interface, at aninput-receiving step 62, an input that is indicative of the condition ofthe subject (e.g., the current menstrual state of the subject), and (ii)identifies an aspect of the sensor signal, at an aspect-identifying step64. The computer processor then learns, at a rule-learning step 66, acondition-identification rule, or a condition-prediction rule, tofacilitate the performance of step 54 of FIG. 2 (determining thesubject's menstrual state and/or pregnancy state).

For example, FIG. 5 shows the computer processor receiving the input,and identifying the aspect of the sensor signal, a plurality of times,such that the computer processor collects a set of data points{(Aspect_i, Input_i)} for i=1 . . . N, i.e., {(Aspect_1, Input_1) . . .(Aspect_N, Input_N)}. Based at least on the plurality of data points,the computer processor implements a machine-learning algorithm to learnthe rule, at rule-learning step 66. For example, the computer processormay implement a supervised learning algorithm to learn the rule. In someapplications, the number of identified aspects is greater than thenumber of inputs (i.e., at least one “Aspect_i” does not have acorresponding “Input_i”), and the computer processor implements asemi-supervised learning algorithm to learn the rule.

In some applications, the computer processor continually improves thelearned rule, based on feedback from the user. For example, if thecomputer processor identified that the subject was pregnant, and theidentification was later found to be incorrect, the subject may reportthe incorrect identification to the computer processor, and the computerprocessor may modify the rule accordingly.

For some applications, computer processor is configured to incorporatenon-subject-specific data into a machine learning-algorithm, in order toidentify the subject's menstrual state and/or pregnancy state, generallyin accordance with techniques described herein. For example, thecomputer processor may be configured to receive data (e.g., via anetwork) regarding measured parameters of other females, and thecorresponding menstrual state(s) and/or pregnancy state(s) of thosefemales. The computer processor is configured to use these data asadditional inputs in a machine-learning algorithm, in order to identifythe subject's menstrual and/or pregnancy state.

As shown in FIG. 5 , for some applications, computer processor 28performs the step of determining the subject's menstrual state and/orpregnancy state in response to the learned rule, in combination with theanalysis of the sensor signal.

In general, learning step 60 may be applied to any of the menstrualstate and/or pregnancy state identification applications describedhereinabove, as well as to other similar applications. For example:

(i) The subject may provide one or more inputs indicative of whether sheis pregnant, and the computer processor may identify the aspect of thesensor signal associated with each of the inputs. The computer processormay then learn a pregnancy-identification rule in response to the inputsand the identified aspects. The pregnancy-identification rule may thenbe used to identify, in response to the current sensor signal, whetherthe subject is pregnant.

(ii) The subject may provide one or more inputs indicative of thecurrent phase of her menstrual cycle, and the computer processor mayidentify the aspect of the sensor signal associated with each of theinputs. The computer processor may then learn a phase-identificationrule, and/or an ovulation-prediction rule, in response to the inputs andthe identified aspects. The learned rule may then be used, in responseto the current sensor signal, to identify the current phase of thesubject's menstrual cycle, and/or predict an upcoming ovulation.

(iii) The subject may provide one or more inputs indicative of anoccurrence of PMS, and the computer processor may identify the aspect ofthe sensor signal associated with each of the inputs. The computerprocessor may then learn a PMS-prediction rule in response to the inputsand the identified aspects. The PMS-prediction rule may then be used topredict, in response to the current sensor signal, an upcomingoccurrence of PMS.

Reference is again made to FIG. 1 . For some applications, computerprocessor 28 communicates with room-climate-regulation device 44, whichmay be an air-conditioning unit. For some women, changes from one phasein the menstrual cycle to another phase are accompanied by changes inclimate sensitivity. Hence, in some applications, computer processor 28performs step 56 of FIG. 2 (generating an output) by communicating acontrol signal to the room-climate-regulation device in response to theidentified phase of the menstrual cycle. (Similarly, the computerprocessor may communicate the control signal in response to identifyingwhether the subject is pregnant.) For some applications, computerprocessor 28 receives an input from the subject (e.g., via userinterface device 35) to facilitate the control of theroom-climate-regulation device. For example, the subject may define a“profile” that covers different stages of the menstrual cycle, such thateach stage is mapped to an appropriate temperature setting (e.g., usingtechniques that are generally similar to those described hereinbelowwith reference to FIGS. 12-15 ). The computer processor then control theroom-climate-regulation device based upon the defined profile, and inresponse to the current sensor signal.

In some applications, the computer processor is further configured, inresponse to analyzing the sensor signal, to identify a sleep stage ofthe subject during the subject's sleeping session. (To identify thesleep stage of the subject, the computer processor may utilizetechniques described in US 2007/0118054 to Pinhas (now abandoned), whichis incorporated herein by reference.) The identification or predictionof the subject's condition is then performed in response to an aspect ofthe sensor signal that is exhibited while the identified sleep stage isa particular sleep stage, and substantially not in response to anyaspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited while the identified sleepstage is not the particular sleep stage.

For example, the computer processor may substantially restrict theanalysis to slow-wave (i.e., deep) sleep, i.e., the computer processormay identify or predict the subject's condition substantially only inresponse to an aspect of the sensor signal that was exhibited duringslow-wave sleep. In some cases, it may be advantageous to substantiallyexclude REM sleep from the analysis. For example, during REM sleep,dreaming of the subject may cause changes in heart rate which, withrespect to the identification of the subject's menstrual stage,constitute unwanted “noise”. On the other hand, in some applications,the analysis is substantially restricted to the REM sleep stage. Forexample, the HRV signal during REM sleep may, in some cases, beparticularly indicative of the subject's current or upcoming condition.

While the scope of the present invention includes using data from theparticular sleep stage, to the complete exclusion of all other sleepstages, the scope of the present invention also includes using data fromsleep stages other than the particular sleep stage, to a certain limitedextent. This is indicated, in the relevant portions of the claims anddescription of the present application, by the word “substantially.” Inparticular, “substantially not in response to any aspect of the sensorsignal that is exhibited while the identified sleep stage is not theparticular sleep stage” means that even if data that is not from theparticular sleep stage is used for the analysis, this data is used to arelatively small extent, such that it does not have a significantinfluence on the outcome of the analysis. For example:

(i) For a non-numeric output (e.g., an output indicative of whether thesubject is pregnant), or a numeric output having a relatively smallnumber of possible values, the “substantially excluded” data might notchange the outcome in more than 5% of cases. In other words, in at least95% of cases, the computer processor would output the same value,regardless of whether the substantially excluded data is used for theanalysis.

(ii) For a numeric output having a relatively large number of possiblevalues (e.g., an output that is generally continuous-valued, such as anexpected amount of time until ovulation), the substantially excludeddata might not change the value of the output by more than 5%. Forexample, if, when completely excluding the data, a value of 2.0 dayswere output, including the data in the analysis would not change theoutput by more than 0.1 days.

It is noted that the scope of the present invention includes restrictingthe analysis to more than one sleep stage. For example, the analysis maybe restricted to all sleep stages except for REM sleep.

In some applications, in response to analyzing the sensor signal, thecomputer processor identifies the end of the chronologically-first orchronologically-second sleep cycle of the subject during the sleepingsession. (For example, to identify the end of a sleep cycle, thecomputer processor may utilize techniques described above with respectto sleep-stage identification.) In such applications, alternatively oradditionally to substantially restricting the analysis to a particularsleep stage, the computer processor may substantially restrict theanalysis to data collected after the end of the chronologically-first orchronologically-second sleep cycle. (In this context, as before, theword “substantially” is to be understood to indicate that the computerprocessor does not necessarily completely exclude from the analysis datathat is collected outside the specified portion of the sleepingsession.) The inventors have observed that in some cases, data collectedduring the first and/or second sleep cycle may contain “artifacts,”i.e., the data may reflect activities (e.g., eating) that the subjectperformed before going to sleep, and may thus “mislead” the computerprocessor. Hence, by substantially excluding the first and/or secondsleep cycle from the analysis, these artifacts are substantiallyfiltered out. Alternatively or additionally, the computer processor maysubstantially restrict the analysis to data collected at least aparticular amount of time from the beginning of the sleeping session.For example, the computer processor may substantially exclude from theanalysis any data that is collected less than two hours from thebeginning of the sleeping session.

Alternatively or additionally to the above, in some applications, thecomputer processor may, in response to analyzing the sensor signal,determine a level of motion of the subject while the subject sleeps. Insuch applications, the computer processor may substantially restrict theanalysis to data collected while the level of motion does not exceed athreshold. (Again, the word “substantially” is to be understood asexplained above.) In this manner, motion artifacts in the sensor signalare substantially excluded from the analysis.

The scope of the present invention includes “substantial exclusion” ofthe first or second sleep cycle of the subject in any relevant context.In other words, the computer processor may identify or predict anyphysiological condition (i) in response to an aspect of the sensorsignal that is exhibited following the end of the chronologically-firstor chronologically-second sleep cycle, and (ii) substantially not inresponse to any aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited before theend of the chronologically-first or chronologically-second sleep cycle.Furthermore, the analysis in which the first and/or second sleep cycleare excluded may be in response to a signal from any type of sensor,including those sensors that require compliance of the subject tomonitor the subject.

Reference is now made to FIG. 6 , which is a schematic illustration ofsubject-monitoring apparatus 20, in accordance with some applications ofthe present invention. Components of subject-monitoring apparatus 20 areas described hereinabove with reference to FIG. 1 . Subject-monitoringapparatus 20 comprises a sensor 22, which is generally as describedhereinabove, and is configured to monitor subject 24. It is noted that,in the applications described with reference to FIGS. 6-29 , thesubjects are typically male or female subjects. Subject-monitoringapparatus 20 includes a control unit, which is typically a computerprocessor, such as computer processor 28 described hereinabove. Asdescribed hereinabove, computer processor typically communicates with amemory 29. The computer processor is typically a control unit thatperforms the algorithms described herein, including analyzing the signalfrom sensor 22. It is noted that, in general, in the specification andclaims of the present application, the terms “computer processor” and“control unit” are used interchangeably, since steps of the techniquesdescribed herein are typically performed by a computer processor thatfunctions as a control unit. Therefore, the present application refersto component 28 both as a “computer processor” and a “control unit.”

In response to the analyzing, control unit 28 controls a property (e.g.,the content, genre, volume, frequency, and/or phase-shift) of a soundsignal, and drives a speaker 70 to play the sound signal. Typically, asdescribed hereinbelow, the property of the sound signal is controlledsuch as to help the subject fall asleep or remain asleep.

For example, if the subject is trying to fall asleep, the control unitmay select a sound signal of the “relaxing nature sounds” genre, and mayfurther select the content of the signal to be the sound of waveshitting the seashore. The control unit may further set the frequency ofthe sound signal (e.g., the frequency of the waves) to an offset lessthan the subject's current heart rate or respiratory rate, in order tofacilitate slowing of the subject's heart rate and/or respiratory rate.In some applications, the control unit controls the offset, in responseto analyzing the sensor signal; for example, as the heart rate of thesubject approaches a target “relaxed” heart rate, the control unit mayreduce the offset, such that the frequency of the sound signal is veryclose to or identical with the subject's heart rate. As the subjectbegins to fall asleep, the control unit may reduce the volume of thesound signal.

In some applications, the control unit controls a phase-shift of thesound signal with respect to a cardiac signal and/or a respiratorysignal of the subject. For example, the control unit may cause the soundof a wave hitting the seashore to occur a given amount of time (e.g.,300 milliseconds) before or after each heartbeat of the subject, or agiven amount of time (e.g., 1 second) after each expiration of thesubject.

In some applications, the control unit ascertains that the subject istrying to fall asleep, at least in response to analyzing the sensorsignal. For example, by analyzing the sensor signal, the control unitmay ascertain that the subject is awake and is exhibiting a large amountof movement indicative of restlessness in bed. Alternatively oradditionally, the ascertaining is in response to one or more otherfactors, such as a signal from a light sensor that indicates a low levelof ambient light in the room, and/or the time of day. In response toascertaining that the subject is trying to fall asleep, the control unitcontrols the property of the sound signal, as described hereinabove.

In some applications, by analyzing the sensor signal, the control unitascertains a sleep stage of the subject, and controls the property ofthe sound signal in response to the ascertained sleep stage. Forexample, in response to ascertaining that the subject has entered aslow-wave (i.e., deep) sleep stage, the volume of the sound signal maybe reduced to a relatively low level (e.g., zero). In identifying asleep stage of a subject, as described throughout the presentapplication, the control unit may use one or more of the techniquesdescribed in (a) US 2007/0118054 to Pinhas (now abandoned), (b) Shinaret al., Computers in Cardiology 2001; Vol. 28: 593-596, and (c) Shinar Zet al., “Identification of arousals using heart rate beat-to-beatvariability,” Sleep 21(3 Suppl):294 (1998), each of which isincorporated herein by reference. For example, as described byparagraphs [0073], [0181], and [0185]-[0187] of US 2007/0118054 toPinhas:

-   -   [paragraph 0073 of Pinhas] Other embodiments of the invention        include methods and systems for monitoring a clinical condition        including monitoring clinical parameters during sleep and        identifying sleep stages and comparing the clinical parameters        in at least one sleep stage to baseline clinical parameters for        that sleep stage. The methods and device for identifying sleep        stages may include a motion acquisition module, a pattern        analysis module and an output module, as described below.    -   [Paragraph 0181 of Pinhas] In an embodiment of the present        invention, system 10 is adapted to monitor parameters of the        patient including breathing rate, heart rate, coughing counts,        expiration/inspiration ratios, augmented breaths, deep        inspirations, tremor, sleep cycle, and restlessness patterns,        among other parameters. These parameters are defined herein as        “clinical parameters.”    -   [Paragraph 0185 of Pinhas] Although system 10 may monitor        breathing and heartbeat patterns at any time, for some        conditions it is generally most effective to monitor such        patterns during sleep at night. When the subject is awake,        physical and mental activities unrelated to the monitored        condition often affect breathing and heartbeat patterns. Such        unrelated activities generally have less influence during most        night sleep. For some applications, system 10 monitors and        records patterns throughout all or a large portion of a night.        The resulting data set generally encompasses typical long-term        respiratory and heartbeat patterns, and facilitates        comprehensive analysis. Additionally, such a large data set        enables rejection of segments contaminated with movement or        other artifacts, while retaining sufficient data for a        statistically significant analysis.    -   [Paragraph 0186 of Pinhas] Reference is again made to FIG. 2.        Data acquisition module 20 typically comprises circuitry for        processing the raw motion signal generated by motion sensor 30,        such as at least one pre-amplifier 32, at least one filter 34,        and an analog-to-digital (A/D) converter 36. Filter 34 typically        comprises a band-pass filter or a low-pass filter, serving as an        anti-aliasing filter with a cut-off frequency of less than one        half of the sampling rate. The low-passed data is typically        digitized at a sampling rate of at least 10 Hz and stored in        memory. For example, the anti-aliasing filter cut-off may be set        to 10 Hz and the sampling rate set to 40 Hz. For some        applications, filter 34 comprises a band-pass filter having a        low cutoff frequency between about 0.03 Hz and about 0.2 Hz,        e.g., about 0.05 Hz, and a high cutoff frequency between about 1        Hz and about 10 Hz, e.g., about 5 Hz. Alternatively or        additionally, the output of motion sensor 30 is channeled        through several signal-conditioning channels, each with its own        gain and filtering settings tuned according to the desired        signal. For example, for breathing signals, a relatively low        gain and a frequency passband of up to about 5 Hz may be used,        while for heartbeat signals, a moderate gain and a slightly        higher frequency cutoff of about 10 Hz may be used. For some        applications, motion sensor 30 is additionally used for        registration of acoustic signals, for which a frequency passband        of about 100 Hz to about 8 kHz is useful.    -   [Paragraph 0187 of Pinhas] Chronic conditions often affect sleep        cycles. For example, asthma affects the sleep cycle and the        quality of sleep as described by Fitzpatrick and Engleman in        Thorax, Vol. 46, pp. 569-573, which is incorporated herein by        reference. In an embodiment of the present invention, system 10        is adapted to monitor heartbeat patterns of subject 12. The        heart beat pattern is analyzed to identify peaks and measure        distance between the peaks. FIG. 26 shows a typical signal        measured by an embodiment of the present invention. Line 510        denotes the signal after a filter for the heartbeat signal        (0.8-2.0 Hz). As is known in the art, the “R-R interval” is a        characteristic of a heart beat signal, for example, an ECG        trace. The R-R interval is the time period between successive R        waves of the heart beat signal. According to aspects of the        present invention, the R-R signal is calculated by measuring the        time distance between each pair of peak, e.g., 511 to 512 and        513 to 514, and then dividing 60 seconds by that distance to        receive the instantaneous heart rate in beats per minute (that        is, 60 [secs./min.]/(R-R) [secs./beat]=60/(R-R) [beats/min.]). A        sample result is shown in FIG. 27. This data is used to identify        sleep stages using for example algorithms as described by Shinar        et al. in Computers in Cardiology 2001, Vol. 28: 593-596 which        is incorporated herein by reference.

Typically, the control unit controls the property of the sound signalfurther in response to a historical physiological parameter of thesubject that was exhibited in response to a historical sound signal. Forexample, the control unit may “learn” the subject's typical responses toparticular sound-signal properties, and control the sound signal inresponse thereto. Thus, for example, if the subject has historicallyresponded well to a “relaxing nature sounds” genre, but less so to a“classical music” genre, the control unit may select the former genrefor the subject. To determine whether the subject has historicallyresponded well to particular properties of the sound signal, the controlunit looks at some or all of historical physiological parameters such asa quality of sleep, a time-to-fall-asleep, a heart-rate-variability, achange in heart rate, a change in respiratory rate, a change inheart-rate-variability, a change in blood pressure, a rate of change inheart rate, a rate of change in respiratory rate, a rate of change inheart-rate-variability, and a rate of change in blood pressure.

In some applications, the control unit controls the frequency of thesound signal by synthesizing the sound signal, or by selecting apre-recorded sound signal that has the desired frequency; in otherwords, the control unit selects the content of the signal, without theuser's input. In other applications, the control unit selects content ofthe sound signal in response to a manual input, e.g., an input enteredvia user interface device 35 (FIG. 1 ). For example, the subject mayselect a particular piece of classical music, and the control unit maythen control properties (such as the frequency, i.e., the tempo) of thatparticular piece. This may be done, for example, using appropriatesoftware, such as Transcribe!™ by Seventh String Software of London, UK.

Reference is now made to FIG. 7 , which is a schematic illustration ofapparatus 20, in accordance with some applications of the presentinvention. Components of subject-monitoring apparatus 20 are asdescribed hereinabove with reference to FIG. 1 . Subject-monitoringapparatus 20 comprises a sensor 22, which is generally as describedhereinabove, and is configured to monitor subject 24. Subject-monitoringapparatus 20 includes a control unit, which is typically a computerprocessor, such as computer processor 28 described hereinabove. Asdescribed hereinabove, computer processor typically communicates with amemory 29. The computer processor is typically a control unit thatperforms the algorithms described herein, including analyzing the signalfrom sensor 22.

In some applications, e.g., with an infant subject, the control unitdrives a vibrating or rocking mechanism 80 by sending a control signalto the mechanism, alternatively or additionally to driving the speakerto play the sound signal. For example, in response to analyzing thesensor signal, the control unit may ascertain that the infant is notsleeping. In response to the ascertaining, the control unit may controla device such as the Lullabub Cot Rocker™ by Babyhugs Pty of MermaidBeach, Australia, in order to help the infant fall asleep. In someapplications, the controlling of the vibrating or rocking mechanism isalso in response to historical sleep-related data of the subject. Forexample, if the infant has historically responded well to vibrations ata particular frequency, the control unit may select that particularfrequency. (The historical sleep-related data may include any of theparameters described above, such as time-to-fall-asleep orheart-rate-variability.)

In some applications, in response to the subject awakening prematurely,the control unit “recreates” the environment that originally helped thesubject fall asleep. For example, if a particular sound and/or rockingsetting helped the infant fall asleep at the beginning of the night, thesame setting may be used to help the infant fall asleep, upon the infantwaking up prematurely.

In some applications, the control unit performs a “sweep” (or“optimization routine”) over various sound and/or vibration and/orrocking settings, in order to learn which settings are more conducive tosleep of the subject, relative to other settings. For example, over thecourse of one or more sleeping sessions, the control unit may vary aparameter such as a sound frequency, a sound amplitude, a vibrationfrequency, a vibration amplitude, a rocking frequency, or a rockingamplitude. By analyzing the sensor signal, the control unit identifies avalue of the parameter that is more conducive to sleep of the subject,relative to other values. Subsequent to the learning, the control unitsets the selected parameter to the identified value. The sweep may beperformed before every sleeping session, or alternatively, at lessfrequent intervals, depending on how well the subject is responding tothe identified “optimal” settings.

FIG. 8 shows a flow chart depicting aspects of the functioning ofsubject-monitoring apparatus 20, as described hereinabove with referenceto FIGS. 6-7 , in accordance with some applications of the presentinvention. At a signal-receiving step 90, the control unit receives thesignal from the sensor. At a signal-analyzing step 92, the control unitanalyzes the signal. Then, at an is-subject-trying-to-fall-asleep step94, the control unit ascertains whether the subject is trying to fallasleep. (In the context of the claims and description of the presentapplication, the phrase “trying to fall asleep” does not necessarilyconnote a conscious attempt to sleep. For example, in the case of ayoung child, e.g., an infant, “trying to fall asleep” may simplyindicate that the child is lying in bed.) If the control unit ascertainsthat the subject is trying to fall asleep, the control unit controls(i.e., sets) a property of the sound signal and/or vibration/rockingmechanism, at a property-controlling step 96. Then, the control unitrepeatedly checks for changes in physiological parameters (e.g., aslowing of heart rate), and/or changes in the sleep stage of thesubject, at a checking step 98. In response to identifying a change, thecontrol unit again controls a property of the sound signal and/orvibration/rocking mechanism, in step 100.

Reference is now made to FIG. 9 , which is a schematic illustration ofsubject-monitoring apparatus 20 for use with an alerting device 110, inaccordance with some applications of the present invention. Componentsof subject-monitoring apparatus 20 are as described hereinabove withreference to FIG. 1 . Subject-monitoring apparatus 20 comprises one ormore sensors 22, which are generally as described hereinabove, and areconfigured to monitor a care-provider 112 and a care-receiver 114 (thecare-provider and care-receiver corresponding to subject 24 in FIG. 1 ).Subject-monitoring apparatus 20 includes a control unit, which istypically a computer processor, such as computer processor 28 describedhereinabove. As described hereinabove, computer processor typicallycommunicates with a memory 29. The computer processor is typically acontrol unit that performs the algorithms described herein, includinganalyzing the signal from sensor 22.

Apparatus 20, as shown in FIG. 9 , generally facilitates the provisionof care by care-provider 112 for care-receiver 114. As shown in FIG. 9 ,at least one sensor 22 monitors sleep of care-provider 112 and sleep ofcare-receiver 114, and generates a signal in response thereto. Forexample, one sensor 22 may monitor sleep of care-provider 112, whileanother sensor 22 monitors sleep of care-receiver 114. (The two sensorsmay be directly in communication with a single control unit 28, oralternatively, as shown in the figure, may communicate with respectivecontrol units that are in communication with each other.) Control unit28 analyzes the signal, and in response thereto, drives alerting device110 to alert (e.g., wake) the care-provider, in order for thecare-provider to provide care to the care-receiver. In some situations,the care-receiver may wish to receive advance warning of the upcomingcare-providing, rather than have the care-provider suddenly intrude.Thus, in some applications, the control unit drives a second alertingdevice to alert the care-receiver.

A typical scenario, in which care-provider 112 is a mother andcare-receiver 114 is a newborn baby, is depicted in FIG. 9 . A newbornbaby is generally fed several times a night; these multiple feedings aretypically disruptive to the sleep of both the mother and the baby.Apparatus 20 generally reduces this disruption, by timing the feedingsin accordance with the sensor signal(s). For example, the control unitmay ascertain, by analyzing the signal(s), a sleep stage of both themother and the baby. If both the mother and the baby are sleepinglightly or are awake, the control unit may identify the current time asan opportune feeding time, and may consequently drive the alertingdevice to alert the mother. (In general, the “best” sleep stage is“awake”; next, in order of preference, are light sleep, REM, andslow-wave sleep, i.e., deep sleep.) Identifying an opportune feedingtime typically involves taking into account one or more additionalfactors such as a desired number of feedings per night, a minimumspacing between feedings, and a maximum spacing between feedings. (Thesefactors may be received as inputs, e.g., via user interface device 35(FIG. 1 ).) Control unit 28 is configured to take these factors intoaccount.

Control unit 28 is also configured to handle complex scenarios in whichidentifying an “optimal alerting time” is more difficult, such as wherethe sleep cycles of the two parties are generally not in synch with eachother. (For example, one of the parties may typically be in a deep sleepwhenever the other party is in a light sleep.) To handle thesescenarios, the control unit may make use of historical sleep-relateddata of the care-provider and/or the care-receiver, e.g., usingtechniques as described hereinbelow. For example, if the historical datashows that the care-provider typically takes longer to fall asleep thanthe care-receiver, the control unit may give greater weight to the sleepstage of the care-provider, relative to the sleep stage of thecare-receiver. (Thus, for example, the control unit may alert thecare-provider if the care-provider is awake, even if the care-receiveris in a deep sleep.) The control unit may also use the historical datato predict upcoming changes. For example, the control unit may predictthat the deep-sleeping party will, within a given period of time, moveinto an REM sleep-stage or a light sleep-stage, while the other partywill remain in a light sleep-stage. In response to this prediction, thecontrol unit may withhold the alert for the given period of time, ratherthan unnecessarily disturb the deep-sleeping party. Statistical averagesbased on age, gender, etc. may be used, alternatively or additionally tothe historical data.

Reference is now made to FIG. 10 , which is a schematic illustration ofsubject-monitoring apparatus 20 being used with a noise-making device,such as a home appliance, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention. Components of subject-monitoring apparatus 20 are asdescribed hereinabove with reference to FIG. 1 . Subject-monitoringapparatus 20 comprises a sensor 22, which is generally as describedhereinabove, and is configured to monitor subject 24. Subject-monitoringapparatus 20 includes a control unit, which is typically a computerprocessor, such as computer processor 28 described hereinabove. Asdescribed hereinabove, computer processor typically communicates with amemory 29. The computer processor is typically a control unit thatperforms the algorithms described herein, including analyzing the signalfrom sensor 22.

Sensor 22 is used to monitor sleep of subject 24 and to generate asignal in response thereto. By analyzing the signal, control unit 28ascertains a sleep stage of the subject, and in response thereto,controls the home appliance. Sensor 22 and control unit are typicallygenerally similar to sensor 22 and control unit 28 describedhereinabove. Typically, a method 120 (depicted in FIG. 10 ) is practicedin order to reduce the extent to which noise from the appliance disturbsthe sleep of the subject. Thus, for example, the control unit mayactivate the home appliance in response to ascertaining that the sleepstage of the person is a slow-wave (i.e., deep) sleep stage, and/orinhibit activation of the home appliance in response to ascertainingthat the sleep stage of the subject is a light-sleep stage. Method 120is typically for use with one or more noise-making home appliances suchas a washing machine 122, a dryer 124, an air conditioner 126, a heater128, a refrigerator 130, a freezer 132, and a dishwasher 134. (For someapplications, as shown, an air conditioner and a heater may be combinedinto a single room-climate-regulation device 170.)

In some applications, the home appliance is controlled in response tohistorical sleep-related data of the subject. For example, the controlunit may “learn” the subject's tolerance to noise, and control theappliance in response thereto. Thus, for example, if the control unitlearns that the subject is particularly tolerant to noise, the controlunit may activate the appliance even if the subject is not in a deepsleep.

As shown in FIG. 10 , subject-monitoring apparatus 20 may include afirst noise-making device 142 (e.g., a noise-cancelation speaker orwhite-noise-generating speaker) and the apparatus is used with a secondnoise-making device 144, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention. Second noise-making device 144 may include, forexample, any of the home appliances shown in FIG. 10 . For somesubjects, particularly light sleepers in small domiciles, activation ofone or more of these appliances is likely to be disturbing to sleep.Apparatus 140 generally reduces this disturbance, by activating firstnoise-making device 142 to cancel or drown out the noise from the secondnoise-making device 144.

Reference is now additionally made to FIG. 11 , which shows a flow chartdepicting aspects of the functioning of apparatus 20, in accordance withsome applications of the present invention. At a sensor-signal-receivingstep 150, the control unit receives the signal from the sensor. At adevice-signal-receiving step 152, the control unit receives a devicesignal from the second noise-making device. In response to analyzing (a)the sensor signal at a sensor-signal-analyzing step 154, and (b) thedevice signal at a device-signal-analyzing step 156, the control unit,at an ascertaining step 158, ascertains if the subject is likely toawaken due to an upcoming activation of the second noise-making device.In a decision-making step 160, the control unit determines whether it isadvisable to inhibit the activation of the second noise-making device.In response to the decision-making step, the control unit may “prefer”to inhibit activation of the second noise-making device, at aninhibiting step 162. However, if it is not prudent to do so (e.g., thefood in refrigerator 138 will begin to spoil if the activation of therefrigerator is inhibited), the control unit will activate firstnoise-making device 146 instead, in activation step 164.

Referring again to FIG. 10 , room-climate-regulation device 170 (e.g., athermoregulation device such as heater 128 and/or an air conditioner126) is shown, in accordance with some applications of the presentinvention. For some applications of the present invention, in responseto analyzing the sensor signal from sensor 22, control unit 28identifies a sleep stage of subject 24. In response to the identifiedsleep stage, the control unit controls room-climate-regulation device170 by sending a control signal (e.g., wirelessly) to theroom-climate-regulation device. For example, the control unit maycontrol a noise-emission of the room-climate-regulation device (e.g., bycontrolling the rotating speed of a fan, such as an air conditionerfan), and/or adjust a temperature and/or humidity setting of theroom-climate-regulation device. (Typically, the control unit isconfigured to control the noise-emission of the room-climate-regulationdevice even without adjusting a temperature setting of theroom-climate-regulation device.)

In some cases, the control unit may increase a noise level of theroom-climate-regulation device in response to the identified sleep stagenot being a slow-wave (i.e., deep) sleep stage. A subject who is awakeor is sleeping lightly may desire “white noise” in order to drown outother ambient noise and/or lull the subject to sleep; in such cases, thecontrol unit increases the noise level of the room-climate-regulationdevice. Conversely, the control unit may decrease the noise level inresponse to the identified sleep stage being a slow-wave sleep stage,since a deep-sleeping subject typically requires less white noise.

In other cases, the control unit may increase the noise level of theroom-climate-regulation device (e.g., by turning the device on) inresponse to the identified sleep stage being a slow-wave sleep stage,and/or decrease the noise level of the room-climate-regulation device(e.g., by turning the device off) in response to the identified sleepstage not being a slow-wave sleep stage. This may be appropriate, forexample, if the subject is easily disturbed by noise, and prefers thatthe room-climate-regulation device makes noise only when the subject isin a deep sleep. (In other words, the subject may want to defer theregulation of temperature until the subject is sleeping deeply.)

In some applications, the control unit is configured to control thenoise-emission of the room-climate-regulation device further in responseto an ambient noise level. For example, the control unit may increasethe white noise emission of the device only if the level of ambientnoise is greater than a threshold.

In some applications, the apparatus shown in FIG. 10 performs at leastsome of the functions of apparatus 20 as shown in FIG. 6 , withroom-climate-regulation device 170 taking the place of speaker 70. Forexample, the control unit may be configured to control a frequencyand/or a phase-shift of emitted noise of the room-climate-regulationdevice in response to a heart rate and/or a respiratory rate of thesubject. Such applications typically require that theroom-climate-regulation device be specially configured. For example, anair conditioner fan may be configured such that the rotating speed ofits blades can automatically vary in a regular (e.g., sinusoidal)fashion, such that the amplitude of the emitted noise also varies in aregular fashion. The amplitude of the emitted noise can thus be made tohave a particular frequency (e.g., slightly less than the heart rate ofthe subject), and/or a particular phase-shift (e.g., such that thehighest fan-speed is reached at a particular offset from each heartbeatof the subject).

In some applications, the control unit controls the frequency and/orphase-shift of the emitted noise further in response to the identifiedsleep stage of the subject. For example, in response to the subjectbeing awake, the control unit may set the frequency of the speedoscillations of the fan (and hence, the frequency of the emitted noise)to be slightly less than the heart rate of the subject, in order to helpthe subject fall asleep. In general, apparatus 20 as shown in FIG. 10may be used in combination with techniques described hereinabove withreference to FIGS. 6-8 , mutatis mutandis.

Studies show that dynamically regulating the temperature of a subject'ssleep environment may improve the subject's sleep quality. For example,maintaining a steady temperature may increase the slow-wave-sleep (SWS)ratio, and cooling the bed during rapid-eye-movement (REM) sleep mayincrease the REM sleep share rate. In some applications, the controlunit is configured, in response to the identified sleep stage, tocontrol a temperature setting of the room-climate-regulation device. Forexample, the control unit may be configured to lower the temperaturesetting of the room-climate-regulation device in response to theidentified sleep stage being an REM sleep stage. Examples ofroom-climate-regulation devices the temperatures of which may becontrolled include air-conditioning units (e.g., room-climate-regulationdevice 170 as shown in FIG. 10 , which includes a heater and an airconditioner), electric heaters, radiators, bed coolers, and electricblankets.

In some applications, the control unit is configured, by analyzing thesensor signal, to identify an indication of a body temperature of thesubject, and/or ascertain that the subject is uncomfortable with thecurrent ambient temperature. The control unit then controls thetemperature setting in response thereto. For example, the control unitmay identify a tremor component of the signal, i.e., a component of thesignal indicative of shivering of the subject, and in response thereto,raise the temperature setting of the room-climate-regulation device.Alternatively or additionally, the control unit may control a setting(e.g., a temperature setting) of the room-climate-regulation device inresponse to identifying changes in parameters of the subject from theirbaseline values. Such parameters include motion of the subject,respiratory rate, respiratory patterns, respiration amplitude,respiration-cycle variability, heart rate, heart rate variability,heartbeat amplitude, pulse transfer time, left ventricular ejectiontime, and vasoconstriction. In some applications, the control unitcontrols the temperature setting of the room-climate-regulation deviceirrespective of the sleep stage of the subject.

In some applications, control unit 28 is adaptive to a particularsubject, in that the control unit “learns” from previous responses ofthe subject to changes in the noise level or temperature setting of theroom-climate-regulation device. For example, the control unit may modifythe magnitude or timing of the change in response to a previous changenot having been fully effective, or in response to a previous changehaving been disruptive to the subject's sleep.

Reference is now additionally made to FIG. 12 , which is a schematicillustration of a user interface 180, which is typically for use with aroom-climate-regulation device 170 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 10 ), inaccordance with some applications of the present invention. In someapplications, user interface 180 (which may be embodied in any one ofthe user interface devices 35 described with reference to FIG. 1 , forexample, in smartphone 36 or tablet device 34) is configured to acceptan input from the subject that facilitates the control of theroom-climate-regulation device. For example, user interface 180 mayinclude a setting-entry interface 182, which allows the subject to inputat least two distinct settings for the room-climate-regulation devicecorresponding to respective different sleep stages, i.e., a“room-climate-control profile”. In general, a room-climate-controlprofile is a function that maps two or more different sleep stages torespective settings of the device. For example, the profile may map alight sleep stage to a first temperature setting, a slow-wave (i.e.,deep) sleep stage to a second temperature setting, and an REM sleepstage to a third temperature setting. Alternatively or additionally, theprofile may map different “macro stages” of sleep to different settings.Thus, for example, in a wintertime scenario, the profile may indicatethat:

(a) As the subject is falling asleep (i.e., is in a falling-asleepstage, prior to sleep), the heat should be set to a high setting.

(b) As the subject begins to sleep (i.e., is in a beginning-sleepstage), the heat should be lowered to a medium setting.

(c) While the subject continues to sleep (i.e., is in a mid-sleepstage), the heat should be lowered to a low setting, or maintained atthe medium setting.

(d) As the subject is awakening at a normal time (i.e., is in anawakening stage), and/or is awakening prematurely (i.e., is in apremature-awakening stage), the heat should be raised back to the highsetting.

The control unit differentially identifies the relevant sleep stages,and controls the room-climate-regulation device in accordance with thesubject's input. For example, upon ascertaining that the subject is inan awakening stage and/or a light sleep stage, rather than a mid-sleepstage and/or a deep sleep stage, the control unit may raise thetemperature in the room. In some applications, the control unit alsocontrols another device, such as an alarm clock, in response to thedifferentially identified sleep stages. For example, upon reaching thesubject's desired awakening time, the control unit may wait until thesubject is in an awakening stage, and then activate the alarm clock.

In some applications, the control unit drives the user interface toprompt the subject to enter the input, in response to a change in arelevant parameter. For example, in response to a change in season, anambient temperature, an ambient humidity, and/or a going-to-sleep time(e.g., the subject is going to bed at an unusual time), the control unitmay drive the user interface to prompt the subject to re-enter hisroom-climate preferences. (The control unit may identify the change ofthe relevant parameter in a variety of ways, such as, for example, byreceiving input from a sensor, or by checking the Internet.) In someapplications, sensor 22 senses a weight of a blanket of the subject, andthe control unit drives the user interface to prompt the subject toenter the input, in response to a change in the sensed weight. Forexample, the subject may be prompted to enter the input upon the subjectswitching to a heavy winter blanket.

Aspects of the control of the room-climate-regulation device, asdescribed above, are depicted in FIG. 13 , which is a device-controlflow chart, in accordance with some applications of the presentinvention. At a prompting step 190, the subject is prompted to input hisroom-climate preferences. The input is accepted at an input-acceptingstep 192. At a device-setting step 194, the room-climate-regulationdevice is set in response to the input. At a parameter-change-detectionstep 196, the control unit checks for a change in a relevant parameter,such as an ambient temperature. If the control unit detects a change,the control unit may reset the device (e.g., by communicating a newroom-climate-control profile to the device) at device-setting step 194.(Prior to setting the device, the control unit may first prompt theuser, at prompting step 190, to confirm that a suggested setting isacceptable, and/or to input relevant parameters.)

Reference is now made to FIG. 14 , which is another device-control flowchart, in accordance with some applications of the present invention. Insome applications, at a sleep-score-ascertaining step 198, the controlunit ascertains, in response to analyzing the sensor signal, a sleepscore of the subject. For example, the control unit may compute a scorefrom one or more parameters such as a time to fall asleep, duration ofsleep, or “sleep efficiency,” which is the percentage of in-bed timeduring which the subject is sleeping. For some applications, the scoreis calculated using one or more of the aforementioned parameters, suchthat a higher sleep score is indicative of more restful sleeping sessionrelative to a lower sleep score. At a score-comparison step 200, thecontrol unit compares the sleep score to a baseline value, e.g., anaverage sleep score over a previous period of time. In response to theascertained sleep score being lower than the baseline value, the controlunit may drive the user interface to prompt the subject, at promptingstep 190, to re-enter his room-climate preferences, since it is possiblethat the room climate was a contributing factor in the subject's lowsleep score. Alternatively or additionally, at prompting step 190, thecontrol unit may drive user interface 180 (FIG. 12 ) to prompt thesubject to use a factor-entry interface 184 to input at least one factorthat may have caused the low sleep score. The control unit then controlsthe room-climate-regulation device in response to the input.

In some applications, the control unit computes a measure of relaxation,i.e., a relaxation score, for the subject, one or more times during asleeping session. For example, a high relaxation score may be computedif the subject shows little movement, and little variation in bothrespiration rate and respiration amplitude. The relaxation score may beused to compute the sleep score. Alternatively or additionally, inresponse to a low relaxation score, the control unit may immediatelyadjust the room climate.

In some applications, the control unit controls theroom-climate-regulation device in response to the low sleep score, evenwithout any input from the user. For example, if, in the summer, thesubject woke up shivering in the middle of the night, the control unitmay ascertain that the strength of the air conditioning was not loweredquickly enough. In response thereto, the control unit may adjust thesubject's room-climate-control profile, such that, for example, thetemperature in the room rises soon after the subject falls asleep. Insome applications, in response to the low sleep score, the control unitgenerates an output (e.g., via user interface 180) that includes asuggested setting for the room-climate-regulation device. For example,with reference to FIG. 12 , setting-entry interface 182 may display, atprompting step 190, a suggested room-climate-control profile, which thesubject may edit and/or confirm by hitting a confirm button 186.

It is noted that in the context of the claims and description of thepresent application, the word “setting” has a broad definition, in thatit encompasses at least (a) a particular mapping in aroom-climate-control profile (e.g., a room-climate-control profile mayspecify a high temperature “setting” for the falling-asleep stage), and(b) the room-climate-control profile itself. Thus, depending on theparticular context, the word “setting” may refer to (a), or (b), orboth.

In some applications, in response to a premature awakening of thesubject, the control unit is configured to change a setting of theroom-climate-regulation device, to facilitate the subject falling asleepagain. For example, the control unit may set the room-climate-regulationdevice to whichever setting helped the subject fall asleep at thebeginning of the night.

Reference is now made to FIG. 15 , which is a setting-optimization flowchart, in accordance with some applications of the present invention. Insome applications, the control unit is configured to perform a “sweep”(or “optimization routine”) over a plurality of different settings(e.g., a plurality of different room-climate-control profiles), in orderto ascertain which setting is conducive to a higher sleep score,relative to other settings, e.g., which setting maximizes the sleepscore. For example, over the course of several sleeping sessions, thecontrol unit may change the room-climate-control profile in differentways, and in response thereto, determine the optimalroom-climate-control profile.

Before each sleeping session, the control unit sets the device atdevice-setting step 194. After the sleeping session, the control unitascertains the sleep score, at sleep-score-ascertaining step 198. At anis-sweep-finished-determination step 202, the control unit determineswhether more settings should be tried. If the control unit determinesthat no more settings should be tried (since, for example, a localmaximum of the sleep score was attained), the control unit ascertains,at an optimal-setting-determination step 204, which setting maximizesthe sleep score, i.e., which setting yields at least a local maximum ofthe sleep score. At an output-generating step 206, the control unitgenerates an output indicative of this “optimal” setting. For example,the output may include a control signal to the room-climate-regulationdevice that drives the device to use the optimal room-climate-controlprofile on subsequent nights. Alternatively or additionally, the outputmay include a signal to the user interface to display the optimalroom-climate-control profile to the subject, and the subject may thenedit and/or approve this profile, as described hereinabove.

In some applications, user interface 180 (FIG. 12 ) includes aparameter-entry interface 188, which allows the subject to enter a rangefor one or more parameters. At prompting step 190, the subject isprompted to input this information, and the control unit accepts thisinput at an input-accepting step 192. The control unit then sets theplurality of different settings in response to the input, i.e., thecontrol unit then performs the sweep over the range. (FIG. 15 indicates(using dashed boxes to indicate optional steps) that prompting step 190and input-accepting step 192 are optional, since, as describedhereinabove, the control unit may set the plurality of differentsettings even without any deliberate input from the subject.)

Reference is now made to FIG. 16 , which is a schematic illustration ofsubject-monitoring apparatus 20 for use with two subjects who share aroom, in accordance with some applications of the present invention.Components of subject-monitoring apparatus 20 are generally similar tothose of subject-monitoring apparatus 20 described hereinabove withreference to FIG. 1 . Subject-monitoring apparatus 20 comprises one ormore sensors 22, which are generally as described hereinabove, and areconfigured to monitor first and second subjects 24. Subject-monitoringapparatus 20 includes a control unit, which is typically a computerprocessor, such as computer processor 28 described hereinabove. Asdescribed hereinabove, computer processor typically communicates with amemory 29. The computer processor is typically a control unit thatperforms the algorithms described herein, including analyzing the signalfrom sensor 22.

In general, if two room-sharing subjects have different room-climatepreferences, and/or are in different stages of sleep, managing the roomclimate may be challenging. As described hereinbelow, applications ofthe present invention address this challenge.

As shown in FIG. 16 , apparatus 20 typically comprises first and secondsensors 22 configured to monitor respective subjects. (In someapplications, a single sensor 22 monitors both subjects.) The controlunit analyzes the sensor signals, identifies the respective sleep stagesof the subjects, and in response to the respective identified sleepstages, controls a room-climate-regulation device by sending a controlsignal to the room-climate-regulation device. FIG. 13 illustrates thisfor a room-climate-regulation device that includes an electric blanket210. For some applications, the room-climate-regulation device includesan air-conditioner and/or a heater, as shown in FIG. 10 , for example.

In some applications, the room-climate-regulation device cansimultaneously maintain a first setting in a vicinity of the firstsubject, and a second setting, which is different from the firstsetting, in a vicinity of the second subject. For example, electricblanket 210 may be able to simultaneously maintain a first temperaturein area A, and a second temperature in area B. The control unitcommunicates the first and second settings (e.g., the first and secondtemperatures) to the room-climate-regulation device, in response to therespective identified sleep stages, and/or in response to other detectedphysiological activity of the subjects. In some applications, thecontrol unit also ascertains a sleep score for each of the subjects, andcontrols the room-climate-regulation device in response to the sleepscores, e.g., as described hereinabove.

In some cases, the room-climate-regulation device can maintain only asingle setting. In such cases, the control unit may determine a“compromise” setting that is at least somewhat acceptable to each of thesubjects. A compromise setting may be determined in response to anaverage sleep score of the subjects. For example, the control unit maydetermine a setting of the room-climate-regulation device that maximizesthe average sleep score of the subjects (e.g., a setting that minimizesthe average falling-asleep time). Alternatively, the compromise settingmay be a setting of the room-climate-regulation device that facilitatesrespective sleep scores of the subjects being equal to one another. Ifboth subjects are trying to fall asleep, the control unit maycommunicate the compromise setting, such as to give each subject a “fairchance” of falling asleep. Upon one of the subjects falling asleep, thecontrol unit may communicate a second, different setting that is atleast somewhat more sleep-conducive for the subject who is still awake,relative to the first setting.

Alternatively, in response to one of the sensor signals indicating thatone of the subjects is trying to fall asleep, the control unit may firstcommunicate a setting that is at least somewhat more sleep-conducive forthat subject, relative to the other subject, to help that subject fallasleep. Subsequently, in response to the sensor signals indicating that(a) the subject has fallen asleep, and (b) the other subject is tryingto fall asleep, the control unit may communicate a second setting to theroom-climate-regulation device, the second setting being at leastsomewhat more sleep-conducive for the other subject, relative to thefirst setting, to help the other subject fall asleep. Once both subjectsare asleep, the control unit may communicate a compromise setting to theroom-climate-regulation device, as described hereinabove.

In some applications, the control unit makes gradual changes to thesettings. For example, if Subject A prefers a temperature of 23 C, andSubject B prefers 25 C, the control unit may first communicate a settingof 23 C, to help Subject A fall asleep. Subsequent to Subject A fallingasleep, the control unit may change the setting to 24 C. If Subject Bdoes not fall asleep within a reasonable amount of time, the temperaturemay then be changed to 25 C. By not immediately changing the temperatureto 25 C subsequent to Subject A falling asleep, the control unit mayhelp prevent Subject A from waking up prematurely.

In some cases, e.g., cases in which the subjects' room-climatepreferences for falling asleep are very different from one another, oneof the subjects may wish to wait outside the room until the othersubject is asleep. In such applications, the control unit may generatean output (e.g., a text message) to the waiting subject, the outputindicating that the subject's partner has fallen asleep. Then, theroom-climate setting may be adjusted, to help the still-awake subjectfall asleep.

Reference is now made to FIG. 17 , which shows a flow chart that depictsaspects of the functioning of apparatus 20 with room-sharing subjects,as described above, in accordance with some applications of the presentinvention. At a first communicating step 220, the control unitcommunicates a first setting to the room-climate-regulation device. Thefirst setting may be, for example, a compromise setting, or a settingthat is more conducive to sleep of a particular one of the subjects. Ata sleep-assessment step 222, the control unit assesses whether one ofthe subjects is asleep. If one of the subjects is asleep, the controlunit, optionally, generates an output to the other subject, at anoutput-generation step 224. Finally, at a second communication step 226,the control unit communicates a second setting to theroom-climate-regulation device, the second setting being more conduciveto sleep of the still-awake subject, relative to the first setting.

Reference is again made to FIG. 10 . For situations in which two or moresubjects share a common area (e.g., a common sleeping area, as describedhereinabove, or a common living room), the control unit may control acontrollable mechanism (e.g., room-climate-regulation device 170, or anillumination device) in response to determining which of the subjectsare present in the common area. At least one sensor 22 monitors thecommon area and generates a sensor signal in response thereto. Inresponse to analyzing the sensor signal, the control unit determineswhich of the plurality of subjects are present in the common area, andcontrols the controllable mechanism in response thereto.

For example, for two subjects who share a room, room-climate-regulationdevice 170 may have three distinct settings, corresponding respectivelyto (a) a situation in which the first subject, but not the secondsubject, is present, (b) a situation in which the second subject, butnot the first subject, is present, and (c) a situation in which bothsubjects are present. For example, the first and second settings may be,respectively, the first subject and second subject's “optimal”temperatures for falling asleep, the third setting being an intermediate(“compromise”) setting between the first and second settings. Thecontrol unit then sets the room-climate-regulation device to theappropriate setting, in response to determining which of the subjects ispresent. In some applications, the control unit establishes the threedistinct settings, in response to analyzing the sensor signal. Forexample, the control unit may use machine-learning techniques toestablish the respective “optimal” settings for scenarios (a)-(c)described above. Alternatively or additionally, the control unit mayestablish the settings via any of the techniques described hereinabovewith reference to FIGS. 12-15 , mutatis mutandis.

Reference is now made to FIG. 18 , which is a schematic illustration ofsubject-monitoring apparatus 20 for use with (i) a plurality of subjectssharing a common area 232, and (ii) a controllable mechanism 234, e.g.,room-climate-regulation device 170, in accordance with some applicationsof the present invention. Components of subject-monitoring apparatus 20are as described hereinabove with reference to FIG. 1 .Subject-monitoring apparatus 20 comprises one or more sensors 22, whichare generally as described hereinabove, and are configured to monitorsubjects 236 and 238 (subjects 236 and 238 corresponding to subject 24of FIG. 1 ). Subject-monitoring apparatus 20 includes a control unit,which is typically a computer processor, such as computer processor 28described hereinabove. As described hereinabove, computer processortypically communicates with a memory 29. The computer processor istypically a control unit that performs the algorithms described herein,including analyzing the signal from sensor 22.

Apparatus 20 comprises one or more physiological sensors 22, which areconfigured to monitor conditions of the subjects and to generate, inresponse thereto, a respective sensor signal for each one of thesubjects. Control unit 28 analyzes the sensor signals, and, in responsethereto, determines a prioritization of the condition of one of thesubjects over the condition of another one of the subjects. In responseto the prioritization, the control unit decides whether to controlcontrollable mechanism 234. Subsequently, in response to (i) theprioritization, and (ii) deciding to control the controllable mechanism,the control unit controls the controllable mechanism by communicating acontrol signal to the controllable mechanism.

In general, the concept of “prioritizing a condition,” as used in theclaims and description of the present application, should be understoodto include at least the idea of “trading off” potentially conflictingneeds and/or preferences of the plurality of subjects. For example, attimes the condition of Subject A (which may be either one of subjects236 and 238) is more pressing than that of Subject B (which is the otherone of subjects 236 and 238), such that Subject B may have to suffer forthe sake of Subject A. Thus, for example, the control unit may controlthe controllable mechanism for the benefit of Subject A, even to thedetriment of Subject B.

For example, as shown in FIG. 18 , common area 232 may be a commonsleeping area, and the “condition” that is monitored may be sleep, i.e.,sensors 22 may monitor sleep of the subjects, e.g., by monitoring heartrate, respiratory rate, and/or large body movement. In response toanalyzing the sensor signals, the control unit may determine aprioritization of sleep of one of the subjects over sleep of another oneof the subjects. For example, in response to analyzing the sensorsignals, the control unit may determine that a first subject 236 issleeping, while a second subject 238 is not sleeping. (For example, thecontrol unit may determine that subject 236 has been sleeping for asignificant amount of time, while subject 238 has been unable to fallasleep for a significant amount of time.) In response thereto, thecontrol unit may determine that the sleep of subject 238 should beprioritized over that of subject 236, in order to be “fair” to subject238. Consequently, the control unit may decide to change the temperatureof the room to a new temperature that is more conducive to the sleep ofsubject 238. For example, if the current temperature is 20 C, thecontrol unit may raise the temperature to 23 C if this is the “optimal”temperature for subject 238, even if 23 C is not the “optimal”temperature for subject 236, and even if 23 C is detrimental to thesleep of subject 236. For example, even if it is likely that subject 236will awaken as a result of the temperature change, the control unit mayin any case make the change.

In general, apparatus 20 as shown in FIG. 18 may be used in combinationwith techniques described hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 12-17 .For example, each of the room-sharing subjects may have aroom-climate-control profile (as described with reference to FIGS. 12-17). The control unit may then switch between the respective profiles atvarious times during the night, depending on which subject is currentlyprioritized over the other subject(s).

In some applications, the “condition” is comfort, i.e., sensors 22monitor comfort of the subjects, and the control unit prioritizes thecomfort of one subject over the comfort of another subject. For example,in response to the sensor signals indicating that one of the subjects isshivering, the control unit may prioritize the comfort of the shiveringsubject, and subsequently raise the temperature in the room, even ifanother subject is more comfortable with the current temperature thanwith the new, higher temperature. In such applications, common area 232may be a common sleeping area, or may be a different type of commonarea, e.g., a living room. (For example, sensors 22 may be worn on thebodies of the subjects and/or placed inside sofas or recliners in theliving room.)

In some applications, controllable mechanism 234 is an adjustableresting surface 240 (e.g., a shared adjustable resting surface), thecontrol unit controlling adjustable resting surface 240 in response tothe prioritization of the condition (e.g., sleep and/or comfort) of oneof the subjects. (FIG. 18 shows the control unit in communication with aparameter-adjusting unit 242 of the resting surface.) For example, thecontrol unit may set the resting surface to a particular angle in orderto facilitate the sleep and/or comfort of subject 238, even if subject236 prefers a different angle, and even if the particular angle isdetrimental to the sleep and/or comfort of subject 236. In this context,apparatus 20 may be used in combination with techniques describedhereinbelow with reference to FIG. 24 . For example, in response todetecting that the current posture of subject 238 is conducive to apnea,the angle of the resting surface may be changed, even to the detrimentof the sleep of subject 236.

In some applications, controllable mechanism 234 is an illuminationdevice 244 (e.g., a lamp, as shown), the control unit controllingillumination device 244 in response to the prioritization. For example,the control unit may darken or lighten the room to a particularillumination level in order to facilitate the sleep and/or comfort ofsubject 238, even if subject 236 prefers a different illumination level,and even if the particular illumination level is detrimental to thesleep and/or comfort of subject 236. In this context, apparatus 20 maybe used in combination with techniques described in WO 2015/008285 toShinar (e.g., techniques described with reference to FIGS. 19 and 20 ofthe aforementioned PCT to Shinar), which is incorporated herein byreference.

In some applications, controllable mechanism 234 is a sound-playingdevice (e.g., speaker 70, described hereinabove), the control unit beingconfigured to control the sound-playing device in response to theprioritization. For example, the control unit may adjust speaker 70 to aparticular volume in order to facilitate the sleep and/or comfort ofsubject 238, even if subject 236 prefers a different volume, and even ifthe particular volume is detrimental to the sleep and/or comfort ofsubject 236.

In some applications, the control unit is configured to determine theprioritization in response to a health condition of at least one of thesubjects. For example, in response to analyzing the sensor signals, thecontrol unit may determine that subject 236 is experiencing an asthmaattack, and/or has experienced asthma attacks in the past. In response,the control unit may prioritize the sleep and/or comfort of subject 236,and consequently, drive room-climate-regulation device 170 to blow coldair into the room, even if the cold air is disruptive to the sleepand/or comfort of subject 238. In some applications, apparatus 20comprises at least one body-temperature sensor (e.g., integrated with awristwatch 246) configured to (i) detect a body temperature of at leastone of the subjects, and (ii) generate a body-temperature signal inresponse thereto, the control unit being configured to determine thehealth condition of the subject(s) in response to the body-temperaturesignal(s).

In some applications, user interface device 35 (described hereinabovewith reference to FIG. 1 ) is configured to accept an input from a user,and the control unit is configured to determine the prioritizationfurther in response to the input. For example, before going to sleep,subject 238 may input an indication that she is feeling unusually tired.In response, the control unit may prioritize the sleep of subject 238over that of subject 236, and control the controllable mechanismaccordingly. Alternatively or additionally, the input may indicate thatsubject 238 is currently ill, or is recovering from a recent illness.(Such indication may also be received from the sensor signals,alternatively or additionally to the user input.) In response, thecontrol unit may prioritize the sleep and/or comfort of subject 238 overthat of subject 236, and control the controllable mechanism accordingly.

In some cases, controlling the controllable mechanism in a particularmanner is (i) facilitative to sleep of a first subject, but (ii) atleast potentially detrimental to sleep of a second subject; in suchcases, the control unit decides to control the controllable mechanism inthe particular manner only if the prioritization indicates that sleep ofthe first subject is to be prioritized over sleep of the second subject.(In the context of the claims and description of the presentapplication, “at least potentially detrimental” means there is at leasta small (but non-negligible) likelihood that the sleep of the secondsubject will be disturbed.) For example, as noted above, a change in theroom temperature may facilitate the sleep of one subject, butpotentially disrupt the sleep of another subject. Other examples includecases in which one of the subjects is snoring. In such cases, as furtherdescribed immediately hereinbelow, the control unit may activate asnoring-inhibition mechanism 248 that is disruptive to sleep of thesnoring subject, in order to inhibit the snoring, and thus help anothersubject sleep.

For some applications, in response to analyzing the sensor signals, thecontrol unit determines that (i) one of the subjects is snoring, and(ii) another one of the subjects may be disturbed by the snoring. (Thesnoring may be identified, for example, using techniques described in US2007/0118054 to Pinhas, now abandoned, which is incorporated herein byreference.) In response thereto, the control unit decides to activatesnoring-inhibition mechanism 248, unless the prioritization indicatesthat sleep of the snoring subject is to be prioritized over sleep of theother one of the subjects. An example of snoring-inhibition mechanism248 is a vibrating mechanism 250, which, by vibrating, disrupts thesleep of the snoring subject and/or “nudges” the snoring subject tochange position, thus inhibiting future snoring. For example, avibrating mechanism 250 may be disposed underneath the mattress, and/orwristwatch 246 may be configured to vibrate. Another example ofsnoring-inhibition mechanism 248 is adjustable resting surface 240(e.g., an adjustable mattress or pillow), which, by being adjusted,disrupts the sleep of the snoring subject and/or moves the subject to adifferent position in which snoring is less likely to occur. (Thesnoring-inhibition techniques described here may be practiced incombination with posture detection, as described hereinbelow withreference to FIG. 24 .)

Typically, the control unit identifies respective sleep stages of thesubjects by analyzing the sensor signals, and determines theprioritization in response to identifying the respective sleep stages.For example, the control unit may identify that each of the respectivesleep stages is a slow-wave (i.e., deep) sleep stage, arapid-eye-movement (REM) sleep stage, a light sleep stage, or an awakesleep stage. (In the context of the claims and description of thepresent application, a subject who is awake is considered to be in an“awake sleep stage.”) The control unit further assigns a rank to eachsleep stage, where slow-wave sleep and REM sleep have the two lowestrankings, light sleep has the next-highest ranking, and awake has thehighest ranking. (Slow-wave sleep may be ranked higher or lower than REMsleep.) The likelihood of the control unit prioritizing the sleep of afirst subject over the sleep of a second subject generally increases ordecreases with the rank of the first subject's sleep stage. For example,Table 1 below shows an illustrative example of a manner in which thecontrol unit may determine whether to activate snoring-inhibitionmechanism 248, in response to the respective sleep stages of thesubjects. (Similar tables may be constructed to show how the controlunit might prioritize the sleep of the subjects in other contexts, e.g.,for adjusting the lighting or temperature in the room, mutatismutandis.)

TABLE 1 Sleep Stage of Snoring Sleep Stage of Other Subject SubjectSlow-wave REM Light Awake Slow-wave Don't Activate Don't Activate Don'tActivate Activate REM Don't Activate Don't Activate Activate ActivateLight Don't Activate Activate Activate Activate

As illustrated in Table 1, as the rank of the sleep stage of the snoringsubject decreases, the sleep of the snoring subject is more likely to beprioritized over the sleep of the other subject. One reason for this isthat the quality, e.g., the benefits, of slow-wave and REM sleep isgreater than that of light sleep. Thus, for example, the snoring subjectsuffers less if he is awakened from light sleep than if he is awakenedfrom REM or deep sleep. On the other hand, as the rank of the sleepstage of the other subject decreases, the sleep of the other subject isless likely to be prioritized over the sleep of the snoring subject. Onereason for this is that the snoring is less likely to disturb the othersubject if the other subject is in a relatively deeper stage of sleep,than if the other subject is in a relatively lighter stage of sleep.

In some applications, the control unit analyzes the sensor signals overa plurality of sleeping sessions, and identifies, for each of thesubjects, a sleep-sensitivity of the subject to at least one phenomenonthat is generally detrimental to sleep (e.g., a noise or lightingdisturbance). For example, the control unit may analyze the durationand/or quality of sleep of the subjects in response to various noisedisturbances over the plurality of sleeping sessions. If, for example,subject 238 is seen to be woken more than subject 236, and/or is seen tofall asleep after the disturbances less quickly than subject 236, and/oris seen to have a greater reduction in sleep quality than subject 236 asa result of the noise, the control unit may determine that subject 238has a greater sleep-sensitivity than subject 236. The control unit thendetermines the prioritization in response to the identifiedsleep-sensitivities. Typically, the control unit is more likely toprioritize the sleep of a first subject over the sleep of a secondsubject if the sleep-sensitivity of the first subject is higher than thesleep-sensitivity of the second subject. For example, Table 2 below isan illustrative modification of Table 1 that shows, by way of example,how the control unit might “tweak” the prioritization in response to thenon-snoring (“other”) subject having a greater sleep-sensitivity thanthe snoring subject. (The asterisked entries are those that differ fromTable 1.)

TABLE 2 Sleep Stage of Snoring Sleep Stage of Other Subject SubjectSlow-wave REM Light Awake Slow-wave Don't Activate Don't ActivateActivate (*) Activate REM Don't Activate Activate (*) Activate ActivateLight Activate (*) Activate Activate Activate

In some applications, the control unit is configured to take intoaccount the duration and/or quality of sleep of the subjects during apreceding interval, e.g., during the night thus far, and/or during theprevious night or last several nights. In some applications, theduration and/or quality of sleep may be the basis of a sleep score,which the control unit calculates at a particular time in response toanalyzing the sensor signals. The control unit then determines theprioritization in response to the respective sleep scores. For example,if the snoring subject has slept well prior to the particular time,while the other subject has not slept well, the sleep score of thesnoring subject will be adjusted, for example, such that the sleep scoreof the snoring subject becomes higher than that of the other subject.The control unit may then be more likely to prioritize sleep of theother subject over sleep of the snoring subject, relative to if thesleep score of the snoring subject were not higher than the sleep scoreof the other subject. (For example, if the snoring subject has a highersleep score than the other subject, the control unit may use Table 2,rather than Table 1, in deciding whether to activate thesnoring-inhibition mechanism.)

In some cases, as noted above, controlling the controllable mechanism ina particular manner is (i) facilitative to sleep of a first subject, and(ii) at least potentially detrimental to sleep of a second subject. Forexample, if subject 238 is having difficulty falling asleep, turning onrelaxing music may facilitate the sleep of subject 238, but may possiblywake subject 236. Alternatively, if subject 236 is snoring, activatingthe snoring-inhibition mechanism may facilitate the sleep of subject238, but will likely disrupt the sleep of subject 236. In such cases, insome applications, the control unit is configured to control thecontrollable mechanism in the particular manner only if the second oneof the subjects is not sleeping deeply. Thus, in the examples providedimmediately above, subject 236 is “spared” if he is sleeping deeply.

Also in such cases, the control unit may compare the sleep score of thefirst subject to a threshold, and control the controllable mechanism inthe particular manner in response to the sleep score being lower thanthe threshold. For example, if, at a time close to morning, subject 238has not yet slept for six hours, the control unit may be more likely toinhibit the snoring of subject 236, relative to if subject 238 were tohave already slept for six hours. The decision is typically also basedon the respective sleep stages of the subjects; for example, in responseto the sleep score of subject 238 being lower than the threshold, thecontrol unit may decide to inhibit the snoring of subject 236, but onlyif subject 238 and/or subject 236 is not sleeping deeply. Similarly, thesleep score of the second subject may be compared to a threshold. Forexample, if subject 236 has already slept for eight hours, the snoringof subject 236 may be inhibited whenever the snoring is potentiallydisturbing to subject 238.

Table 3 below is another illustrative and non-limiting “decision table,”corresponding to a case in which the sleep score of the other(non-snoring) subject is less than a threshold, as describedhereinabove. (The asterisked entries are those that differ from Table1.)

TABLE 3 Sleep Stage of Snoring Sleep Stage of Other Subject SubjectSlow-wave REM Light Awake Slow-wave Don't Activate Activate (*) Activate(*) Activate REM Don't Activate Activate (*) Activate Activate LightDon't Activate Activate Activate Activate

Reference is now made to FIG. 19 , which is a schematic illustration ofsubject-monitoring apparatus 20 for monitoring sleep of a baby 260, inaccordance with some applications of the present invention. Componentsof subject-monitoring apparatus 20 are as described hereinabove withreference to FIG. 1 . Subject-monitoring apparatus 20 comprises a sensor22, which is generally as described hereinabove, and is configured tomonitor baby 260 (the baby corresponding to subject 24 of FIG. 1 ).Subject-monitoring apparatus 20 includes a control unit, which istypically a computer processor, such as computer processor 28 describedhereinabove. As described hereinabove, computer processor typicallycommunicates with a memory 29. The computer processor is typically acontrol unit that performs the algorithms described herein, includinganalyzing the signal from sensor 22.

For the applications shown in FIG. 19 , sensor 22 monitors sleep of baby260. Control unit 28 is configured to analyze the signal from thesensor, and in response thereto, ascertain that the baby is in alight-sleep stage, and is therefore likely to wake up soon (and possiblydisturb other household members who are sleeping). In response to thisascertaining, control unit 28 drives an electromechanical (e.g., arobotic) arm 262 to deliver a comfort-inducing object 264 (e.g., apacifier or a stuffed animal) to the baby.

Alternatively or additionally, the control unit drives electromechanicalarm 262 to deliver comfort-inducing object 264 to the baby, in responseto ascertaining that the baby's mouth is performing a sucking motion.Typically, the frequency of a baby's sucking motion is different fromthat of the baby's heart rate and respiratory rate. Hence, if thecontrol unit detects three dominant frequencies in the sensor signal,and particularly if one of those frequencies is a typical suckingfrequency (such as a frequency in the range of 1-2 Hz), the control unitmay ascertain that the baby's mouth is performing a sucking motion.

Alternatively or additionally to controlling electromechanical arm 262,the control unit may generate an alert, in response to the baby being ina light sleep, and/or in response to the sucking motion. For example,the control unit may alert a parent 266 of the baby that the baby is inneed of food or comfort. Such an alert may improve the quality of carethat is provided to the baby, and/or may help reduce the likelihood ofthe baby waking other members of the household.

FIG. 19 also depicts a method 268 for reducing disturbance to sleep of asubject, in accordance with some applications of the present invention.A typical scenario is depicted in FIG. 4 . Baby 260 is sleeping or is inthe process of falling asleep in a room. A person (e.g., parent 266)desires to perform an activity that is potentially disturbing to thesleep of the baby; for example, the person may wish to enter the room orturn on a vacuum cleaner. Control unit 28 accepts an input indicative ofthe person desiring to perform the activity. The control unit analyzesthe sensor signal, and, in response to analyzing the signal, identifiesa time during which the activity is likely to be less disturbing to thesleep of the subject, relative to another time. For example, the controlunit may ascertain that the subject is presently sleeping deeply, orwill be sleeping deeply within a given number of minutes. (To identifythat the subject is presently sleeping deeply, or will be sleepingdeeply within a given number of minutes, the control unit may ascertainthe sleep stage of the subject as described, for example, in the abovequoted paragraphs [0073], [0181], and [0185]-[0187] from US 2007/0118054to Pinhas.) The control unit then generates a notification indicating asuitability of performing the activity at the identified time. Forexample, the control unit may notify the parent that it is now “safe” toenter the room, or that it will be “safe” within a given number ofminutes. In some applications, the control unit identifies a window oftime for performing the activity.

Method 268 may be implemented via an application, running uponsmartphone 36 and/or a tablet device 34 (as shown in FIG. 1 ), and/or adifferent one of the user interface devices 35. The person indicates,via smartphone 36 or tablet device 34, that (s)he desires to perform thepotentially sleep-disturbing activity. This indication is wirelesslycommunicated from smartphone 36 or tablet device 34 to control unit 28.Upon identifying the opportune time for performing the activity, thecontrol unit wirelessly communicates the notification (e.g., in the formof a text message) to the smartphone or tablet device.

Reference is now made to FIG. 20 , which is a schematic illustration ofapparatus 270 for use with a plurality of patients requiring respectivecare-provision tasks, in accordance with some applications of thepresent invention. FIG. 20 depicts a typical hospital setting, in whicha plurality of subject monitoring systems 272 are in communication witha central monitoring system 274. (This setting is described in detail inUS 2013/0267791 to Halperin, which is incorporated herein by reference.)For example, there may be a monitoring system 272 associated with eachof the beds and/or chairs in a ward, each of the monitoring systemsbeing in communication with a central monitoring system that is near thenurses' station. Components of subject monitoring systems 272 aregenerally similar to those of subject-monitoring apparatus 20 describedhereinabove with reference to FIGS. 1-5 , apart from the differencesdescribed hereinbelow. Each monitoring system includes a control unit 28in communication with a sensor 22, the sensor typically being asdescribed hereinabove. The control unit is typically a computerprocessor, such as computer processor 28 described hereinabove. Asdescribed hereinabove, computer processor typically communicates with amemory 29. The computer processor is typically a control unit thatperforms the algorithms described herein, including analyzing the signalfrom sensor 22.

Typically, central monitoring system 274 includes a central monitoringuser interface device 276 (e.g., a display, and/or any of the devicesdescribed as user interface devices with reference to FIG. 1 ), and acentral monitoring system control unit 278, which typically includes acentral monitoring system computer processor 280, which communicateswith a memory 282). The display typically displays data relating to aplurality of the patients the monitoring systems of whom are associatedwith the central monitoring system. For some applications, sensors 22 ofthe individual subject monitoring systems communicate directly with thecentral monitoring system control unit. Alternatively or additionally,control units 28 of the individual subject monitoring systemscommunicate with the central monitoring system control unit.

In many cases, a patient may be in need of a care-provision task that ispotentially disturbing to the patient's sleep or to sleep of thepatient's roommate; for example, a nurse may need to come into the roomone or more times during the night to check the patient's bloodpressure, temperature, etc. As described immediately hereinbelow,apparatus 270 generally reduces the disturbance to the sleep of thepatients, by prioritizing care-provision tasks that are likely to beless disturbing.

Apparatus 270 comprises the plurality of sensors shown in FIG. 20 anddescribed hereinabove. Central monitoring system control unit 278analyzes the plurality of signals from the respective sensors, and inresponse thereto, ascertains respective sleep stages of the patientsand/or respective sleep stages of roommates of the patients. In responseto the respective sleep stages, the control unit determines aprioritization of at least one of the care-provision tasks over at leastone other of the care-provision tasks. For example, if patient 2 isawake, but patient 1 and/or a roommate of patient 1 is sleeping, thecontrol unit may prioritize the care-provision task for patient 2 overthe care-provision task for patient 1. The control unit then generatesan output 284 indicative of the prioritization. Output 284 may, forexample, take the form of a message that is displayed on a tabletcomputer belonging to a nurse, and/or a message displayed via userinterface device 276.

In some applications, apparatus 270 further comprises a location sensingsystem that comprises a plurality of location sensors 286, as describedin US 2013/0267791 to Halperin, which is incorporated herein byreference. The location sensing system is configured to identifyrespective locations of a plurality of care-providers (e.g., clinicians)and/or respective locations of the patients, and to generate alocation-sensing-system signal in response thereto. Control unit 278determines the prioritization further in response to thelocation-sensing-system signal. For example, if a clinician who isresponsible for both patient 1 and patient 2 is closer to patient 1 thanto patient 2, the control unit may output a message to the clinician toprioritize patient 1 over patient 2, if patient 1 and patient 2 are in asimilar sleep state, e.g., both are awake. In some applications, patient1 may be prioritized over patient 2 even if patient 2 is sleeping lessheavily than patient 1, and/or despite another indicator that wouldotherwise have favored prioritizing patient 2. Control unit 278typically determines the prioritization further in response totime-sensitive factors derived from the signals (e.g., heartbeat and/orrespiratory signals) from sensors 22. For example, if, by analyzing thesignals from the respective patients, the control unit determines thatpatient 2 is in more urgent need of care than patient 1, patient 2 maybe prioritized over patient 1, despite sleep-stage or location factorsfavoring the prioritization of patient 1.

It is noted that apparatus 270 need not necessarily include a centralmonitoring system. For example, multiple control units 28 belonging torespective patient monitoring systems may be in communication with eachother, and the functionality described hereinabove may be executed byone or several of these control units.

FIG. 21 shows a flow chart depicting aspects of the functioning ofapparatus 270, as described above, in accordance with some applicationsof the present invention. At a motion-signal-receiving step 290 and amotion-signal-analyzing step 292, respectively, the control unit (e.g.,the control unit of the central monitoring system, and/or control unitsbelonging to respective patient monitoring systems that are incommunication with each other) receives and analyzes the motion signalsfrom the patients. In response to the analyzing, the control unitascertains a level of urgency for each of the patients, at anurgency-ascertaining step 294. The control unit then ascertains sleepstages for one or more relevant patients, at a sleep-stage-ascertainingstep 296. Then, at a location-signal-receiving step 298 and adistance-determining step 300, respectively, the control unit receivesthe location signals, and determines distances of relevant clinicians torelevant patients. Then, at a prioritization-determining step 302, thecontrol unit determines the prioritization, based on one or more of theurgency, sleep-stage, and distance factors. Finally, at anoutput-generating step 303, the control unit outputs the prioritization.

Reference is now made to FIG. 22 , which is a schematic illustration ofsubject-monitoring apparatus 20 for ascertaining that a subject 24 islikely to be resting on a resting surface 304 (e.g., the surface ofmattress 26), in accordance with some applications of the presentinvention. Components of subject-monitoring apparatus 20 are asdescribed hereinabove with reference to FIG. 1 . Subject-monitoringapparatus 20 comprises a sensor 22, which is generally as describedhereinabove, and is configured to monitor subject 24. Subject-monitoringapparatus 20 includes a control unit, which is typically a computerprocessor, such as computer processor 28 described hereinabove. Asdescribed hereinabove, computer processor typically communicates with amemory 29. The computer processor is typically a control unit thatperforms the algorithms described herein, including analyzing the signalfrom sensor 22.

In some situations, it is desired to ascertain that a particular subjectis getting enough sleep, and/or is sleeping at a particular time. Forexample, a health insurance company may wish to verify that an insuredindividual is sleeping healthfully, or a trucking company may wish toverify that a truck driver is getting enough sleep while on the road. Insuch situations, merely verifying that someone is resting on restingsurface 304 is insufficient; rather, the resting person must beidentified as the subject with a reasonable degree of confidence. Asdescribed hereinbelow, apparatus 20 facilitates this identification byascertaining that a handheld telecommunications device 306 (e.g.,smartphone 36) of the subject is not moving and/or is not being used,such that the resting person is likely to be the subject.

Apparatus 20 comprises sensor 22 and processor 28, which, as describedhereinabove, may be a dedicated processor, or may be embodied within auser interface device, e.g., handheld telecommunications device 306(e.g., smartphone 36) of the subject. (In the latter case, device 306may communicate directly with sensor 22, e.g., wirelessly.) Sensor 22monitors resting surface 304, and generates a sensor signal in responsethereto. By analyzing the sensor signal, the processor may ascertainthat a person is resting on the resting surface. However, the processormay not necessarily ascertain, from the sensor signal alone, whether theresting person is the subject; therefore, the processor also analyzes asignal generated by device 306, which provides a further indication asto whether the subject is resting. Examples of signals generated bydevice 306 that may be analyzed alone or in combination with eachanother are the following:

(i) A device-movement signal: The telecommunications device may includea device-movement sensor (e.g., an accelerometer or a GPS sensor)configured to detect movement of the telecommunications device and togenerate a device-movement signal in response thereto.

(ii) A usage signal: The telecommunications device may generate a signalindicative of whether the telecommunications device is being used (e.g.,whether there is a call in progress, outgoing communication, or anyapplication-use).

Processor 28 identifies a level of correspondence between the sensorsignal and the signal generated by the telecommunications device. Forexample, the level of correspondence may be said to be relatively highif (i) the sensor signal indicates that a person is resting on theresting surface, and the signal generated by the telecommunicationsdevice indicates that the device is not being used and/or is not moving,or (ii) the sensor signal indicates that no one is resting on theresting surface, and the signal generated by the telecommunicationsdevice indicates that the device is being used and/or is moving.Conversely, the level of correspondence may be said to be relatively lowif (i) the sensor signal indicates that a person is resting on theresting surface, but the signal generated by the telecommunicationsdevice indicates that the device is being used and/or is moving, or (ii)the sensor signal indicates that no one is resting on the restingsurface, but the signal generated by the telecommunications deviceindicates that the device is not being used and/or is not moving. Inresponse to the level of correspondence, the processor generates anoutput 308 (e.g., a message displayed on a remote device) that isindicative of whether the subject is likely to be resting on the restingsurface.

In general, the processor ascertains that the subject is likely to beresting on the resting surface only if the processor identifies arelatively high level of “positive” correspondence, i.e., the processorascertains (a) from the sensor signal that a person is resting on theresting surface, and (b) from the signal generated by device 306 thatthe telecommunications device is not being used and/or is not moving.If, on the other hand, there is a relatively low level ofcorrespondence, or if there is a relatively high level of “negative”correspondence (i.e., both signals suggest that the subject is notresting on the resting surface), the processor will ascertain that thesubject is not likely to be resting on the resting surface. Output 308is generated in response to the ascertaining.

Alternatively or additionally to the identification of a level ofcorrespondence between the sensor signal and a signal generated bydevice 306, processor 28 may, in response to a signal generated by thetelecommunications device, determine if the telecommunications device iswithin a given distance of the resting surface. If thetelecommunications device is within the given distance, the processorascertains that the subject is likely to be resting on the restingsurface, and generates output 308 in response thereto. Conversely, ifthe telecommunications device is not within the given distance of theresting surface, the processor ascertains that the subject is not likelyto be resting on the resting surface, and generates output 308 inresponse thereto. For example, the processor may check that ashort-range signal emitted from the vicinity of the resting surface,e.g., by a wireless-communication component of sensor 22, is received bythe telecommunications device. (In the context of the present claims anddescription, the phrase “given distance” does not necessarily connote aprecise numerical distance, but rather, can connote a general range ofdistances, e.g., the processor may determine if the telecommunicationsdevice is within Bluetooth™ range of the resting surface.) Alternativelyor additionally, the processor utilizes a signal generated by thetelecommunications device that is indicative of coordinates of alocation of the telecommunications device, e.g., a GPS location signal.At some prior point in time, the processor receives an input indicativeof coordinates of a location of the resting surface, e.g., by promptingthe subject to press an input button on the telecommunications devicewhile on the resting surface. The processor then ascertains that thetelecommunications device is within the given distance of the restingsurface by comparing the location of the telecommunications device withthe location of the resting surface.

In some applications, by periodically analyzing a signal generated bythe telecommunications device, the processor ascertains that thetelecommunications device is periodically used by the subject when thesubject is not on the resting surface. For example, the processor mayascertain that the telecommunications device moves periodically, and/oris used periodically, and/or is periodically not in the vicinity of theresting surface, i.e., the telecommunications device is periodically“active”. Further to this ascertaining, a “non-active” state of thetelecommunications device is more indicative that the subject is likelyto be resting on the resting surface, relative to if thetelecommunications device were not known to be periodically “active”.

Reference is now made to FIG. 23 , which is a schematic illustration ofa technique 310 for generating output 308, in accordance with someapplications of the present invention. In some applications, a largeperiod of time (e.g., a night) is divided into a plurality of smallertime periods 312. (In FIG. 23 , the plurality of time periods isdepicted as consisting of N time periods.) Each of these time periodsmay be a “match,” indicated in the figure by a checkmark, or a“non-match,” indicated in the figure by an X. A “match” is a time periodduring which the level of correspondence between the sensor signal andthe signal generated by the handheld telecommunications device isgreater than a correspondence threshold, and/or the telecommunicationsdevice is within the given distance of the resting surface, such thatthe subject is likely to be resting on the resting surface. In thiscontext, the “sign” of the correspondence is taken into account, i.e.,the level of correspondence between the sensor signal and the signalgenerated by the handheld telecommunications device is greater than thecorrespondence threshold only if the correspondence is “positive”. (Asdefined above, this means that both signals are indicative of thesubject resting on the resting surface.) The processor determines arelationship between the number N1 of matches with the number N2 ofnon-matches (step 314), and generates output 316 in response to therelationship between N1 and N2, e.g., a ratio of N1 to N2. For example,the processor may generate an output indicating that the subject islikely to be resting on the resting surface only if the ratio N1:N2exceeds a threshold.

Reference is now made to FIG. 24 , which is a schematic illustration ofsubject-monitoring apparatus 20 for use with a vibrating mechanism 318and/or adjustable resting surface 240, in accordance with someapplications of the present invention. Adjustable resting surface 240 istypically as described hereinabove with reference to FIG. 18 . Thevibrating mechanism may include vibrating mechanism 250 disposedunderneath mattress 26, and/or vibrating wristwatch 246.) Components ofsubject-monitoring apparatus 20 are as described hereinabove withreference to FIG. 1 . Subject-monitoring apparatus 20 comprises a sensor22, which is generally as described hereinabove, and is configured tomonitor subject 24. Subject-monitoring apparatus 20 includes a controlunit, which is typically a computer processor, such as computerprocessor 28 described hereinabove. As described hereinabove, computerprocessor typically communicates with a memory 29. The computerprocessor is typically a control unit that performs the algorithmsdescribed herein, including analyzing the signal from sensor 22.

Typically, subject 24 is more likely to snore, cough, or have an apneaepisode when the subject is in a supine position. Apparatus 20 reducesthe frequency of snoring, coughing, and/or apnea of subject 24 byencouraging (e.g., by “nudging”) the subject to move from a supineposition to a different position.

Control unit 28, which receives the signal from sensor 22 that monitorssubject 24, identifies the subject's posture (e.g., sleeping position)by analyzing the sensor signal from sensor 22. (In identifying thesubject's posture, the control unit may make use of techniques describedin U.S. Pat. No. 8,821,418 to Meger, which is incorporated herein byreference.) In response to the identified posture, e.g., in response tothe identified posture being a supine position, the control unit drivesvibrating mechanism 318 to vibrate, and/or adjusts a parameter (e.g., anangle) of resting surface 240 by communicating a signal to the restingsurface. (FIG. 24 shows the control unit in communication with aparameter-adjusting unit 242 of the resting surface.) The vibrationtypically “nudges” the subject to change his posture, while theadjustment of the parameter may nudge the subject to change his postureor actually move the subject into the new posture.

In some applications, adjustable resting surface 240 comprises aninflatable pillow, the control unit being configured to adjust a levelof inflation of the inflatable pillow. For example, to inhibit coughingand/or snoring, the control unit may drive an inflating mechanism toinflate the inflatable pillow, by communicating a signal to theinflating mechanism.

In some applications, the control unit, which receives the signal fromsensor 22 that monitors subject 24, is further configured, in responseto analyzing the sensor signal, to identify a sleep stage of thesubject. The control unit then drives the vibrating mechanism tovibrate, and/or adjusts the parameter of the resting surface, further inresponse to the identified sleep stage. For example, the control unitmay drive the vibrating mechanism to vibrate, and/or adjust theparameter of the resting surface, in response to the identified sleepstage being within 5 minutes of an onset or an end of an REM sleepstage, since at these points in time, the “nudging” or moving is lesslikely to disturb the subject's sleep.

In some applications, subject 24 shares a room with a partner 320, and asecond sensor 22 monitors partner 320 and generates a second sensorsignal in response thereto. As shown in FIG. 24 , apparatus 20 typicallycomprises first and second sensors 22 configured to monitor,respectively, subject 24 and partner 320. (In some applications, asingle sensor 22 monitors both the subject and the subject's partner.)It is noted that FIG. 24 shows partner 320 in a separate bed fromsubject 24, but for some applications the subject and his/her partnershare the same bed, e.g., as shown in FIG. 18 .

A control unit 28 analyzes the second sensor signal and, in responsethereto, identifies a sleep stage of the partner. (As shown, there maybe separate control units configured to receive and analyze thesubject's and the partner's sensed signals, respectively. For suchapplications the control units are typically in communication with oneanother.) The control unit that controls the vibrating mechanism and/orthe resting surface drives the vibrating mechanism to vibrate, and/oradjusts the parameter of the resting surface, further in response to theidentified sleep stage of the partner. For example, the control unit maynudge or move the subject in response to the partner being in a lightsleep stage, since at this stage, snoring of the subject is more likelyto disturb the partner.

In some applications, control unit 28, which receives the signal fromsensor 22 that monitors subject 24, is further configured to identify asnoring, coughing, or apnea episode of the subject, e.g., by usingtechniques described in US 2007/0118054 to Pinhas (now abandoned), whichis incorporated herein by reference. In response to the identifiedepisode (alternatively or additionally to the other factors describedabove, such as the sleep state of the subject), the control unit nudgesor moves the subject.

Reference is now made to FIG. 25 , which is a schematic illustration ofapparatus 340 for monitoring a subject in a vehicle, e.g., amulti-person vehicle, such as an airplane 342, in accordance with someapplications of the present invention. One or more sensors 22 are placedin one or more seats 344 in the vehicle, and are used to sensephysiological activity of the subjects who occupy the seats. Controlunit 28 analyzes the motion signals from the sensors, and generates anoutput 345 (e.g., an alert) in response thereto.

Components of apparatus 340 are generally similar to those ofsubject-monitoring apparatus 20 described hereinabove with reference toFIG. 1 . Sensor 22 is generally as described hereinabove. Apparatus 340includes a control unit, which is typically a computer processor, suchas computer processor 28 described hereinabove. As describedhereinabove, computer processor typically communicates with a memory 29.The computer processor is typically a control unit that performs thealgorithms described herein, including analyzing the signal from sensor22.

For example, using apparatus 340:

(a) An alert may be generated if, by analyzing the motion signal, thecontrol unit identifies an elevated stress level of a subject, e.g., byidentifying an elevated heart rate, and/or a decreased stroke volume,e.g., as described in WO 2015/008285 to Shinar, which is incorporatedherein by reference. For example, in response to the pilot experiencingan elevated stress level, the control unit may generate an alert toanother member of the flight crew, and/or individuals on the ground. Thecontrol unit may also analyze the signal of the co-pilot, and generatean alert in response to both the pilot and co-pilot experiencing anelevated stress level, since the presence of an elevated stress level inboth individuals at the same time is likely to be indicative of anemergency situation. Similarly, an alert may be generated if two or morepassengers experience an elevated stress level at the same time.

(b) An alert may be generated if, by analyzing the motion signal, thecontrol unit identifies that it is likely that the subject isexperiencing, or will soon experience, a clinical event, such as a heartattack. For example, if the pilot or one of the passengers isexperiencing a heart attack, members of the flight crew, and/or aphysician who is travelling on the airplane, may be alerted to thesituation.

(c) An alert may be generated if, by analyzing the motion signal, thecontrol unit identifies that it is at least somewhat likely that thesubject is a carrier of a disease, such as severe acute respiratorysyndrome (SARS). For example, if the control unit identifies a change inthe baseline heart rate of the subject without any correlation to motionof the subject, the control unit may ascertain that the subject haslikely experienced a rapid change in body temperature, which mayindicate that the subject is sick. (The baseline heart rate is typicallyan average heart rate over a period of time, e.g., 1-2 hours.) Inresponse, the control unit may alert the flight crew to isolate thesubject.

(d) An alert may be generated if, by analyzing the motion signal, thecontrol unit identifies that the subject (in particular, the pilot orco-pilot) is drowsy or sleeping.

(e) A sleep study may be performed. For example, the control unit mayanalyze the motion signals from various passengers, and identify whichpassengers were sleeping at which times. In response, the control unitmay generate an output to help the airline improve the sleepingconditions on their aircraft (e.g., by reducing lighting, or increasingleg room).

Apparatus 340 may also be used to control the lighting, temperature, orother cabin-environment parameters, in order to facilitate a morepleasant travelling experience. For example, upon detecting that asignificant number of passengers are sleeping or are trying to fallasleep, the lights in the cabin may be dimmed, and/or the movie that isplaying may be stopped. Alternatively or additionally, meals may beserved to the passengers only if a given number of passengers are awake.To help prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT), passengers may be promptedto stand up and take a walk, if the control unit detects that they havebeen sitting in place for too long.

FIG. 26 shows a flow chart for aspects of a method performed usingapparatus 340, as described hereinabove, in accordance with someapplications of the present invention. At a signal-receiving step 350,the control unit receives the signals from the respective motionsensors; for example, the control unit may receive signals from thepilot's and co-pilot's sensors. At a signal-analyzing step 352, thecontrol unit analyzes the signals. At a first stress-level-determinationstep 354, the control unit determines whether the pilot's stress levelis elevated. If the answer is affirmative, the control unit thendetermines, at a second stress-level-determination step 356 whether theco-pilot's stress level is elevated. If both stress levels are elevated,the control unit generates an alert, at an alert-generation step 358.Otherwise, the control unit proceeds to check for other factors that maywarrant the generation of an alert, and generates an alert (step 358) inresponse to determining that one or more such factors exist. Thus, thecontrol unit determines, at a sleep-or-drowsiness-determination step360, whether the pilot (and/or co-pilot) is asleep or drowsy, and at aclinical-event-determination step 362, whether the pilot (and/orco-pilot) might be experiencing, or is about to experience, a clinicalevent.

Reference is now made to FIG. 27 , which is a schematic illustration ofapparatus 370 for monitoring a subject in a casino 372, in accordancewith some applications of the present invention. As described withreference to FIGS. 25-26 , one or more sensors 22 are placed in seats374 of one or more subjects. Components of apparatus 370 are generallysimilar to those of subject-monitoring apparatus 20 describedhereinabove with reference to FIGS. 1-5 . Apparatus 370 includes acontrol unit, which is typically a computer processor, such as computerprocessor 28 described hereinabove. As described hereinabove, computerprocessor typically communicates with a memory 29. The computerprocessor is typically a control unit that performs the algorithmsdescribed herein, including analyzing the signal from sensor 22.

By analyzing the motion signals, control unit 28 identifies an elevatedstress level of one or more subjects. An elevated stress level, which iscommonly experienced while performing casino-related activities, may beindicative of an upcoming clinical event, particularly for subjects whoare elderly and/or infirm. The control unit generates an alert inresponse to the elevated stress level, such that, for example, thesubject can be told to take a break from his activities. In some cases,such as in multi-player games, simultaneous elevated stress levels oftwo or more subjects may indicate that the subjects are colluding. Thecontrol unit may therefore generate the alert in response to each of twoor more subjects having an elevated stress level at the same time.

Reference is now made to FIG. 28 , which is a schematic illustration ofsubject-monitoring apparatus 20, the apparatus being for use with analarm clock 380 for waking first subject 236, in accordance with someapplications of the present invention. Alarm clock 380 may be embodied,for example, in a smartphone or clock radio. Components ofsubject-monitoring apparatus 20 are as described hereinabove withreference to FIG. 1 . Subject-monitoring apparatus 20 comprises one ormore sensors 22, which are generally as described hereinabove, and areconfigured to monitor subjects 236 and 238 (subjects 236 and 238corresponding to subject 24 of FIG. 1 ). Subject-monitoring apparatus 20includes a control unit, which is typically a computer processor, suchas computer processor 28 described hereinabove. As describedhereinabove, computer processor typically communicates with a memory 29.The computer processor is typically a control unit that performs thealgorithms described herein, including analyzing the signal from sensor22.

In some applications, as shown in FIG. 28 , control unit 28 is separatefrom alarm clock 380, and communicates therewith by wired or wirelesscommunication means. In other applications, the alarm clock and controlunit are integrated into a common unit.

A first sensor 22 a monitors resting surface 304 (e.g., the surface ofmattress 26), and generates a signal in response thereto. Control unit28 analyzes the signal. If, in response to the analyzing, the controlunit determines that the resting surface is likely not being occupied bysubject 236, the control unit inhibits the alarm clock from generatingan alarm, and/or stops an alarm that is in progress. (Alternatively, thealarm clock does not generate an alarm unless it is driven to do so bythe control unit, in response to the control unit determining that theresting surface is likely being occupied by subject 236.) This reducesthe likelihood of an alarm waking other members of the household (e.g.,a second subject 238, such as the subject's partner), in cases wherefirst subject 236 arose from resting surface 304 without taking measuresto ensure that the alarm would not subsequently begin or continue tosound. Typically, the control unit is configured to determine that theresting surface is likely not being occupied by first subject 236, evenif the resting surface is occupied by someone. For example, even if thesignal from a second sensor 22 b indicates bed-occupation, the controlunit may determine that the resting surface is likely not being occupiedby first subject 236, if the signal from sensor 22 a (on the right sideof the bed) does not indicate bed-occupation.

In some cases, first subject 236 might arise from bed (thus causing thecontrol unit to inhibit the generating of an alarm), but return to bedthereafter. Hence, the control unit is typically configured to stopinhibiting the alarm clock from generating an alarm, in response todetermining that the resting surface is likely being occupied by firstsubject 236. (Alternatively, the control unit may drive the alarm clockto generate an alarm, in response to determining that the restingsurface is likely being occupied by first subject 236.) In some cases,first subject 236 might not arise from bed, despite a first alarm havingbeen generated by the alarm clock. Hence, the control unit is typicallyconfigured to drive the alarm clock to generate a second alarm, inresponse to determining that the resting surface is likely beingoccupied by the subject.

In some applications, when determining whether to inhibit the alarmclock from generating an alarm (or drive the alarm clock to generate analarm), the control unit 28 also takes into account the sleep stage ofsecond subject 238, who is typically a subject for whom the alarm is notintended. For example, FIG. 28 shows second subject 238 sharing a commonsleep area with first subject 236. Sensor 22 b monitors second subject238, and generates a sensor signal in response thereto. Control unit 28is configured (e.g., via user interface device 35, described hereinabovewith reference to FIG. 1 ) to accept an input indicative of (i) anearliest desired awakening time, and (ii) a latest desired awakeningtime, for first subject 236. At a particular time between the earliestdesired awakening time and the latest desired awakening time, thecontrol unit analyzes the sensor signal from sensor 22 b. In response tothe analyzing, the control unit determines a sleep stage of secondsubject 238, and, in response to the sleep stage, decides whether todrive the alarm clock to generate an alarm.

For example, at an earliest desired awakening time of 6:00, the controlunit may check the sleep stage of second subject 238. If second subject238 is sleeping lightly, the control unit may withhold driving the alarmclock to generate an alarm until (i) second subject 238 wakes up orbegins to sleep more deeply, or (ii) the latest desired awakening time(e.g., 6:30) is reached. Alternatively, the alarm may be set for 6:00,and the control unit may inhibit the alarm clock from generating thealarm until condition (i) or (ii) is satisfied.

In some applications, the control unit analyzes the sensor signal over aplurality of sleeping sessions, and identifies a sleep-sensitivity ofsecond subject 238 to at least one phenomenon that is generallydetrimental to sleep, e.g., as described hereinabove with reference toFIG. 18 . (The phenomenon may be the generation of the alarm by thealarm clock, such that, for example, second subject 238 is considered tohave high sleep-sensitivity is he is readily woken by the alarm.) Inresponse to the identified sleep-sensitivity, the control unit decideswhether to drive the alarm clock to generate an alarm. For example, ifsecond subject 238 has high sleep-sensitivity, the control unit maywithhold from driving the alarm clock to generate an alarm until secondsubject 238 is awake or until the latest desired awakening time isreached.

Alternatively or additionally, the control unit may calculate a sleepscore for the second subject, the sleep score being based on theduration and/or quality of the second subject's sleep during a precedinginterval, as described hereinabove with reference to FIG. 18. Inresponse to the sleep score, the control unit decides whether to drivethe alarm clock to generate an alarm. For example, if the sleep score ofsecond subject 238 is low (e.g., second subject 238 had aless-than-average amount of slow-wave and REM sleep during the night),the control unit may withhold from driving the alarm clock to generatean alarm until second subject 238 is awake or the latest desiredawakening time is reached.

Alternatively or additionally, the control unit may determine whether todrive the alarm clock to generate an alarm in response to a healthcondition of the second subject. For example, if second subject 238 isrecovering from an illness, the control unit may withhold from drivingthe alarm clock to generate an alarm until second subject 238 is awakeor the latest desired awakening time is reached.

Reference is now made to FIG. 29 , which is a schematic illustration ofsubject-monitoring apparatus 20 for monitoring subject 24, when thesubject is a patient in a hospital, in accordance with some applicationsof the present invention. Components of subject-monitoring apparatus 20are as described hereinabove with reference to FIG. 1 .Subject-monitoring apparatus 20 comprises one or more sensors 22, whichare generally as described hereinabove, and are configured to monitorsubject 24. Subject-monitoring apparatus 20 includes a control unit,which is typically a computer processor, such as computer processor 28described hereinabove. As described hereinabove, computer processortypically communicates with a memory 29. The computer processor istypically a control unit that performs the algorithms described herein,including analyzing the signal from sensor 22.

Sensor 22 measures a clinical parameter (e.g., a heart rate or breathingrate) of the patient, and generates a signal in response thereto.Control unit 28 receives the signal from the sensor and compares theclinical parameter to a threshold 390. In response to the comparison,the control unit may generate an alert 392 to a clinician, via userinterface device 35 (which is typically as described with reference toFIG. 1 ). User interface device 35 then receives an input 394 from theclinician, the input indicating whether the clinician believes the alertto have been justified. The control unit then adjusts the threshold inresponse to the input.

For example, if threshold 390 for the patient's heart rate is 90 beatsper minute, and the patient's heart beat exceeds the threshold, then thecontrol unit may generate alert 392. The responding clinician thenexamines the patient, and determines whether the alert was justified. Ifthe clinician indicates, via user interface device 35, that the alertwas not justified (i.e., it was a “false alarm”), the control unit mayadjust the threshold, for example, to 95 beats per minute.Alternatively, if the clinician indicates that the alarm was justified(i.e., it was a “true alarm”), the control unit may “be conservative”and adjust the threshold to 85 beats per minute. In this manner, thefeedback loop depicted in FIG. 29 is generated, whereby the control unit“learns” the proper threshold from experience.

In general, the adjustment of the threshold may be in response to morethan one input. For example, the control unit may adjust the thresholdonly after several false alarms. The control unit may also adjust thethreshold in response to one or more inputs that were received inresponse to alerts that were generated for a different patient. Forexample, if Patient A is afflicted by a particular virus, and there is achance that Patient B might have caught the same virus, the thresholdfor Patient B may be adjusted in response to a “true alarm” input forPatient A.

In general, computer processor 28 may be embodied as a single computerprocessor 28, or a cooperatively networked or clustered set of computerprocessors. Computer processor 28 is typically a programmed digitalcomputing device comprising a central processing unit (CPU), randomaccess memory (RAM), non-volatile secondary storage, such as a harddrive or CD ROM drive, network interfaces, and/or peripheral devices.Program code, including software programs, and data are loaded into theRAM for execution and processing by the CPU and results are generatedfor display, output, transmittal, or storage, as is known in the art.Typically, computer processor 28 is connected to one or more sensors viaone or more wired or wireless connections. Computer processor 28 istypically configured to receive signals (e.g., motion signals) from theone or more sensors, and to process these signals as described herein.In the context of the claims and specification of the presentapplication, the term “motion signal” is used to denote any signal thatis generated by a sensor, upon the sensor sensing motion. Such motionmay include, for example, respiratory motion, cardiac motion, or otherbody motion, e.g., large body-movement. Similarly, the term “motionsensor” is used to denote any sensor that senses motion, including thetypes of motion delineated above.

Applications of the invention described herein can take the form of acomputer program product accessible from a computer-usable orcomputer-readable medium (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readablemedium) providing program code for use by or in connection with acomputer or any instruction execution system, such as computer processor28. For the purposes of this description, a computer-usable or computerreadable medium can be any apparatus that can comprise, store,communicate, propagate, or transport the program for use by or inconnection with the instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.The medium can be an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic,infrared, or semiconductor system (or apparatus or device) or apropagation medium. Typically, the computer-usable or computer readablemedium is a non-transitory computer-usable or computer readable medium.

Examples of a computer-readable medium include a semiconductor or solidstate memory, magnetic tape, a removable computer diskette, a randomaccess memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a rigid magnetic disk andan optical disk. Current examples of optical disks include compactdisk-read only memory (CD-ROM), compact disk-read/write (CD-R/W) andDVD.

A data processing system suitable for storing and/or executing programcode will include at least one processor (e.g., computer processor 28)coupled directly or indirectly to memory elements (e.g., memory 29)through a system bus. The memory elements can include local memoryemployed during actual execution of the program code, bulk storage, andcache memories which provide temporary storage of at least some programcode in order to reduce the number of times code must be retrieved frombulk storage during execution. The system can read the inventiveinstructions on the program storage devices and follow theseinstructions to execute the methodology of the embodiments of theinvention.

Network adapters may be coupled to the processor to enable the processorto become coupled to other processors or remote printers or storagedevices through intervening private or public networks. Modems, cablemodem and Ethernet cards are just a few of the currently available typesof network adapters.

Computer program code for carrying out operations of the presentinvention may be written in any combination of one or more programminglanguages, including an object oriented programming language such asJava, Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional procedural programminglanguages, such as the C programming language or similar programminglanguages.

It will be understood that each block of the flowcharts shown in FIGS.2, 4, 5, 8, 11, 13-15, 17, 21, 23, 26, 29 and combinations of blocks inthe flowcharts, can be implemented by computer program instructions.These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of ageneral purpose computer, special purpose computer, or otherprogrammable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such thatthe instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer (e.g.,computer processor 28) or other programmable data processing apparatus,create means for implementing the functions/acts specified in theflowcharts and/or algorithms described in the present application. Thesecomputer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readablemedium (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable medium) that can directa computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to functionin a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in thecomputer-readable medium produce an article of manufacture includinginstruction means which implement the function/act specified in theflowchart blocks and algorithms. The computer program instructions mayalso be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processingapparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on thecomputer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computerimplemented process such that the instructions which execute on thecomputer or other programmable apparatus provide processes forimplementing the functions/acts specified in the flowcharts and/oralgorithms described in the present application.

Computer processor 28 is typically a hardware device programmed withcomputer program instructions to produce a special purpose computer. Forexample, when programmed to perform the algorithms described withreference to FIGS. 2, 4, and 5 , computer processor 28 typically acts asa special purpose menstrual-state and/or pregnancy-state identificationcomputer processor. When programmed to perform the algorithms describedwith reference to FIG. 8 , computer processor 28 typically acts as aspecial purpose sleep-stage monitoring computer processor. Whenprogrammed to perform the algorithms described with reference to FIG. 11, computer processor 28 typically acts as a special purpose deviceactivation computer processor. When programmed to perform the algorithmsdescribed with reference to FIGS. 13-15 , computer processor 28typically acts as a special purpose room-climate-controlling computerprocessor. When programmed to perform the algorithms described withreference to FIG. 17 , computer processor 28 typically acts as a specialpurpose subject-prioritization computer processor. When programmed toperform the algorithms described with reference to FIG. 23 , computerprocessor 28 typically acts as a special purpose sleep-monitoringcomputer processor. When programmed to perform the algorithms describedwith reference to FIG. 26 , computer processor 28 typically acts as aspecial purpose vehicle-occupant-monitoring computer processor. Whenprogrammed to perform the algorithms described with reference to FIG. 29, computer processor 28 typically acts as a special purposethreshold-adjusting computer processor. Typically, the operationsdescribed herein that are performed by computer processor 28 transformthe physical state of memory 29, which is a real physical article, tohave a different magnetic polarity, electrical charge, or the likedepending on the technology of the memory that is used.

It is noted that the above description of computer processor 28 andmemory 29, and the manner in which the computer processor and the memoryperform the functions described herein is generally applicable tocentral monitoring system computer processor 280 and memory 282. Centralmonitoring system computer processor 280 is typically a hardware deviceprogrammed with computer program instructions to produce a specialpurpose computer. When programmed to perform the algorithms describedwith reference to FIG. 21 , computer processor 280 typically acts as aspecial purpose patient-prioritization computer processor.

There is therefore provided the following inventive concepts, inaccordance with some applications of the present invention:

Inventive concept 1. Apparatus for monitoring a female subject, theapparatus comprising:

a sensor, configured to monitor the subject without contacting thesubject or clothes the subject is wearing, and without viewing thesubject or clothes the subject is wearing, and to generate a sensorsignal in response to the monitoring; and

a computer processor, configured to:

-   -   receive the sensor signal,    -   analyze the sensor signal,    -   in response to the analyzing, identify a menstrual state of the        subject, and    -   generate an output in response thereto.        Inventive concept 2. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 1, wherein the computer processor is configured to        identify the subject's menstrual state without determining a        temperature of the subject.        Inventive concept 3. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 1, wherein the sensor is not configured to measure a        temperature of the subject.        Inventive concept 4. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 1, wherein the computer processor is configured to        identify the subject's menstrual state by identifying a current        menstrual state of the subject.        Inventive concept 5. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 1, wherein the computer processor is configured to        identify the subject's menstrual state by predicting an        occurrence of a future menstrual state of the subject.        Inventive concept 6. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 1, wherein the sensor is configured to be disposed upon        or within a bed of the subject, and is configured to monitor the        subject automatically while the subject is in her bed.        Inventive concept 7. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 1, wherein the computer processor is configured to        identify the menstrual state of the subject, using a        machine-learning algorithm.        Inventive concept 8. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 1, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the        subject without requiring compliance of the subject.        Inventive concept 9. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 1, wherein the output includes a control signal to a        room-climate-regulation device, and the computer processor is        configured to generate the output by communicating the control        signal to the room-climate-regulation device in response to the        identified menstrual state.        Inventive concept 10. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 1, wherein the computer processor is further configured,        in response to identifying the subject's menstrual state, to        identify that the subject is likely to experience premenstrual        syndrome (PMS) in more than 0.5 days,    -   the computer processor being configured to generate the output        in response thereto.        Inventive concept 11. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 1-10, wherein the computer processor is        configured to identify the menstrual state of the subject by        identifying that the subject is likely to ovulate in less than        10 days.        Inventive concept 12. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 11, wherein the computer processor is configured to        identify the menstrual state of the subject by identifying that        the subject is likely to ovulate in less than five days.        Inventive concept 13. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 11, wherein the computer processor is configured to        identify the menstrual state of the subject by identifying that        the subject is likely to ovulate in more than 0.5 days.        Inventive concept 14. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 11, wherein the computer processor is configured to        derive a heart rate variability (HRV) signal from the sensor        signal, and to identify the subject's menstrual state, in        response thereto.        Inventive concept 15. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 11, further comprising an input unit,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify that        the subject is likely to ovulate in less than 10 days by:        -   at least once, prior to currently receiving the sensor            signal:            -   receiving, via the input unit, an input that is                indicative of a phase of the subject's menstrual cycle,                and            -   identifying an aspect of the sensor signal at a time at                which the input was received,        -   in response to the input and the identified aspect of the            sensor signal, learning an ovulation-prediction rule, and        -   using the ovulation-prediction rule to identify that the            subject is likely to ovulate in less than 10 days, based            upon the currently-received sensor signal.            Inventive concept 16. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 1-10,    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured, in        response to identifying the menstrual state of the subject, to        identify that the subject is likely to experience premenstrual        syndrome (PMS) in less than three days,    -   the computer processor being configured to generate the output        in response thereto.        Inventive concept 17. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 16, wherein the computer processor is configured to        derive a heart rate variability (HRV) signal from the sensor        signal, and to identify the subject's menstrual state, in        response thereto.        Inventive concept 18. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 16, further comprising an input unit,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify that        the subject is likely to experience PMS in less than three days        by:        -   at least once, prior to currently receiving the sensor            signal:            -   receiving, via the input unit, an input that is                indicative of an occurrence of PMS of the subject, and            -   identifying an aspect of the sensor signal at a time at                which the input was received,        -   in response to the input and the identified aspect of the            sensor signal, learning a PMS-prediction rule, and        -   using the PMS-prediction rule to identify that the subject            is likely to experience PMS in less than three days, based            upon the currently-received sensor signal.            Inventive concept 19. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 1-10, wherein the computer processor is            configured:    -   in response to the analyzing, to identify an aspect of the        sensor signal selected from the group consisting of: a        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal, and a        respiration-related aspect of the sensor signal, and    -   to identify the menstrual state of the subject, in response to        the identified aspect.        Inventive concept 20. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 19, wherein the identified aspect of the sensor signal        includes a respiratory rate of the subject, and wherein the        computer processor is configured to identify the menstrual state        of the subject by comparing the identified respiratory rate to a        baseline respiratory rate.        Inventive concept 21. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 19, further comprising an input unit,    -   wherein the identified aspect of the sensor signal is a        currently-identified aspect of the sensor signal, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        current phase of the menstrual cycle by:        -   at least once, prior to the identification of the            currently-identified aspect of the sensor signal:            -   receiving, via the input unit, an input that is                indicative of a phase of the subject's menstrual cycle,                and            -   identifying an aspect of the sensor signal at a time at                which the input was received,        -   in response to the input and the identified aspect of the            sensor signal, learning a phase-identification rule, and        -   using the phase-identification rule to identify the            menstrual state of the subject.            Inventive concept 22. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 19, wherein the identified aspect of the sensor            signal includes a heart rate variability (HRV) signal, the            computer processor being configured to identify the            menstrual state in response to the HRV signal.            Inventive concept 23. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 22, wherein, in response to the HRV signal, the            computer processor is configured to identify that the            current phase of the subject's menstrual cycle is a late            follicular phase.            Inventive concept 24. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 23, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify that the current phase of the subject's menstrual            cycle is the late follicular phase in response to an aspect            of a component of a power spectrum of the HRV signal.            Inventive concept 25. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 24, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify that the current phase of the subject's menstrual            cycle is the late follicular phase by identifying that the            component of the power spectrum of the HRV signal has an            amplitude that exceeds a threshold.            Inventive concept 26. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 24, wherein the component of the power spectrum of            the HRV signal lies between 0.1 and 0.5 Hz, the computer            processor being configured to identify that the current            phase of the subject's menstrual cycle is the late            follicular phase in response to an aspect of the component            of the power spectrum.            Inventive concept 27. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 19, wherein the identified aspect of the sensor            signal includes a heart rate of the subject, and wherein the            computer processor is configured to identify the menstrual            state of the subject by comparing the identified heart rate            to a baseline heart rate.            Inventive concept 28. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 27, wherein the computer processor is configured, in            response to the comparing, to:    -   ascertain that the identified heart rate is greater than the        baseline heart rate; and    -   in response thereto, identify the menstrual state of the subject        by identifying that the subject is currently within a given        amount of time of ovulation of the subject.        Inventive concept 29. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 28, wherein the computer processor is configured to        identify that the subject is currently within the given amount        of time of ovulation of the subject by identifying that less        than the given amount of time has transpired since the subject        ovulated.        Inventive concept 30. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 28, wherein the computer processor is configured, in        response to ascertaining that the identified heart rate is        greater than the baseline heart rate, to identify that the        subject is currently within less than two days of ovulation of        the subject.        Inventive concept 31. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 28, wherein the computer processor is configured to        identify that the subject is currently within the given amount        of time of ovulation of the subject in response to the        identified heart rate being less than five heartbeats-per-minute        greater than the baseline heart rate.        Inventive concept 32. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 19, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the        subject during a sleeping session of the subject.        Inventive concept 33. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 32,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to analyze the        sensor signal by identifying an aspect of the sensor signal that        is exhibited at least two hours from a beginning of the sleeping        session, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        menstrual state of the subject (i) in response to the aspect of        the sensor signal that is exhibited at least two hours from the        beginning of the sleeping session, and (ii) substantially not in        response to any aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        less than two hours from the beginning of the sleeping session.        Inventive concept 34. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 32,    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured, in        response to analyzing the sensor signal, to determine a level of        motion of the subject,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to analyze the        sensor signal by identifying an aspect of the sensor signal that        is exhibited while the level of motion does not exceed a        threshold, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        menstrual state of the subject (i) in response to the aspect of        the sensor signal that is exhibited while the level of motion        does not exceed the threshold, and (ii) substantially not in        response to any aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        while the level of motion exceeds the threshold.        Inventive concept 35. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 32,    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured, in        response to analyzing the sensor signal, to identify a sleep        stage of the subject during the sleeping session,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to analyze the        sensor signal by identifying an aspect of the sensor signal that        is exhibited while the identified sleep stage is a particular        sleep stage, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        menstrual state of the subject (i) in response to the aspect of        the sensor signal that is exhibited while the identified sleep        stage is the particular sleep stage, and (ii) substantially not        in response to any aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        while the identified sleep stage is not the particular sleep        stage.        Inventive concept 36. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 35, wherein the particular sleep stage is a slow-wave        sleep stage.        Inventive concept 37. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 35, wherein the particular sleep stage is a        rapid-eye-movement sleep stage.        Inventive concept 38. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 37, wherein the identified aspect of the sensor signal        includes a heart rate variability (HRV) signal, the computer        processor being configured to identify the menstrual state of        the subject in response to the HRV signal that is exhibited        while the identified sleep stage is the particular sleep stage.        Inventive concept 39. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 32,    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured, in        response to analyzing the sensor signal, to identify an end of a        chronologically-first sleep cycle of the subject during the        sleeping session,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to analyze the        sensor signal by identifying an aspect of the sensor signal that        is exhibited following the end of the chronologically-first        sleep cycle, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        menstrual state of the subject (i) in response to the aspect of        the sensor signal that is exhibited following the end of the        chronologically-first sleep cycle, and (ii) substantially not in        response to any aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        before the end of the chronologically-first sleep cycle.        Inventive concept 40. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 39,    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured, in        response to analyzing the sensor signal, to identify an end of a        chronologically-second sleep cycle of the subject during the        sleeping session,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to analyze the        sensor signal by identifying an aspect of the sensor signal that        is exhibited following the end of the chronologically-second        sleep cycle, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        menstrual state of the subject (i) in response to the aspect of        the sensor signal that is exhibited following the end of the        chronologically-second sleep cycle, and (ii) substantially not        in response to any aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        before the end of the chronologically-second sleep cycle.        Inventive concept 41. Apparatus for monitoring a female subject        and for use with a bed, the apparatus comprising:    -   a sensor configured to be disposed upon or within the bed, to        automatically monitor the subject while the subject is in the        bed, and to generate a sensor signal in response to the        monitoring; and    -   a computer processor, configured to:        -   receive the sensor signal,        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   in response to the analyzing, identify a menstrual state of            the subject, and        -   generate an output in response thereto.            Inventive concept 42. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 41, wherein the bed includes a mattress, and wherein            the sensor is configured to be disposed underneath the            mattress and to automatically monitor the subject while the            subject is lying upon the mattress.            Inventive concept 43. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 41, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify the subject's menstrual state without determining a            temperature of the subject.            Inventive concept 44. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 41, wherein the sensor is configured not to measure            a temperature of the subject.            Inventive concept 45. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 41, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            subject without having a direct line of sight of the subject            or clothes the subject is wearing.            Inventive concept 46. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 41, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify the subject's menstrual state by identifying a            current menstrual state of the subject.            Inventive concept 47. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 41, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify the subject's menstrual state by predicting an            occurrence of a future menstrual state of the subject.            Inventive concept 48. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 41, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify the menstrual state of the subject, using a            machine-learning algorithm.            Inventive concept 49. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 41, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            subject without contacting the subject or clothes the            subject is wearing, and without viewing the subject or            clothes the subject is wearing.            Inventive concept 50. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 41, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            subject without requiring compliance of the subject.            Inventive concept 51. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 41, wherein the output includes a control signal to            a room-climate-regulation device, and the computer processor            is configured to generate the output by communicating the            control signal to the room-climate-regulation device in            response to the identified menstrual state.            Inventive concept 52. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 41, wherein the computer processor is further            configured, in response to identifying the subject's            menstrual state, to identify that the subject is likely to            experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in more than 0.5            days,    -   the computer processor being configured to generate the output        in response thereto.        Inventive concept 53. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 41-52, wherein the computer processor is        configured to identify the menstrual state of the subject by        identifying that the subject is likely to ovulate in less than        10 days.        Inventive concept 54. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 53, wherein the computer processor is configured to        identify the menstrual state of the subject by identifying that        the subject is likely to ovulate in less than five days.        Inventive concept 55. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 53, wherein the computer processor is configured to        identify the menstrual state of the subject by identifying that        the subject is likely to ovulate in more than 0.5 days.        Inventive concept 56. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 53, wherein the computer processor is configured to        derive a heart rate variability (HRV) signal from the sensor        signal, and to identify the subject's menstrual state, in        response thereto.        Inventive concept 57. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 53, further comprising an input unit,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify that        the subject is likely to ovulate in less than 10 days by:        -   at least once, prior to currently receiving the sensor            signal:            -   receiving, via the input unit, an input that is                indicative of a phase of the subject's menstrual cycle,                and            -   identifying an aspect of the sensor signal at a time at                which the input was received,        -   in response to the input and the identified aspect of the            sensor signal, learning an ovulation-prediction rule, and        -   using the ovulation-prediction rule to identify that the            subject is likely to ovulate in less than 10 days, based            upon the currently-received sensor signal.            Inventive concept 58. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 41-52,    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured, in        response to identifying the menstrual state of the subject, to        identify that the subject is likely to experience premenstrual        syndrome (PMS) in less than three days,    -   the computer processor being configured to generate the output        in response thereto.        Inventive concept 59. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 58, wherein the computer processor is configured to        derive a heart rate variability (HRV) signal from the sensor        signal, and to identify the subject's menstrual state, in        response thereto.        Inventive concept 60. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 58, further comprising an input unit,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify that        the subject is likely to experience PMS in less than three days        by:        -   at least once, prior to currently receiving the sensor            signal:            -   receiving, via the input unit, an input that is                indicative of an occurrence of PMS of the subject, and            -   identifying an aspect of the sensor signal at a time at                which the input was received,        -   in response to the input and the identified aspect of the            sensor signal, learning a PMS-prediction rule, and        -   using the PMS-prediction rule to identify that the subject            is likely to experience PMS in less than three days, based            upon the currently-received sensor signal.            Inventive concept 61. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 41-52, wherein the computer processor is            configured:    -   in response to the analyzing, to identify an aspect of the        sensor signal selected from the group consisting of: a        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal, and a        respiration-related aspect of the sensor signal, and    -   to identify the menstrual state of the subject, in response to        the identified aspect.        Inventive concept 62. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 61, wherein the identified aspect of the sensor signal        includes a respiratory rate of the subject, and wherein the        computer processor is configured to identify the menstrual state        of the subject by comparing the identified respiratory rate to a        baseline respiratory rate.        Inventive concept 63. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 61, further comprising an input unit,    -   wherein the identified aspect of the sensor signal is a        currently-identified aspect of the sensor signal, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        current phase of the menstrual cycle by:        -   at least once, prior to the identification of the            currently-identified aspect of the sensor signal:            -   receiving, via the input unit, an input that is                indicative of a phase of the subject's menstrual cycle,                and            -   identifying an aspect of the sensor signal at a time at                which the input was received,        -   in response to the input and the identified aspect of the            sensor signal, learning a phase-identification rule, and        -   using the phase-identification rule to identify the            menstrual state of the subject.            Inventive concept 64. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 61, wherein the identified aspect of the sensor            signal includes a heart rate variability (HRV) signal, the            computer processor being configured to identify the            menstrual state in response to the HRV signal.            Inventive concept 65. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 64, wherein, in response to the HRV signal, the            computer processor is configured to identify that the            current phase of the subject's menstrual cycle is a late            follicular phase.            Inventive concept 66. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 65, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify that the current phase of the subject's menstrual            cycle is the late follicular phase in response to an aspect            of a component of a power spectrum of the HRV signal.            Inventive concept 67. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 66, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify that the current phase of the subject's menstrual            cycle is the late follicular phase by identifying that the            component of the power spectrum of the HRV signal has an            amplitude that exceeds a threshold.            Inventive concept 68. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 66, wherein the component of the power spectrum of            the HRV signal lies between 0.1 and 0.5 Hz, the computer            processor being configured to identify that the current            phase of the subject's menstrual cycle is the late            follicular phase in response to an aspect of the component            of the power spectrum.            Inventive concept 69. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 41-52, wherein the identified aspect of            the sensor signal includes a heart rate of the subject, and            wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the            menstrual state of the subject by comparing the identified            heart rate to a baseline heart rate.            Inventive concept 70. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 69, wherein the computer processor is configured, in            response to the comparing, to:    -   ascertain that the identified heart rate is greater than the        baseline heart rate; and    -   in response thereto, identify the menstrual state of the subject        by identifying that the subject is currently within a given        amount of time of ovulation of the subject.        Inventive concept 71. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 70, wherein the computer processor is configured to        identify that the subject is currently within the given amount        of time of ovulation of the subject by identifying that less        than the given amount of time has transpired since the subject        ovulated.        Inventive concept 72. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 70, wherein the computer processor is configured, in        response to ascertaining that the identified heart rate is        greater than the baseline heart rate, to identify that the        subject is currently within less than two days of ovulation of        the subject.        Inventive concept 73. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 70, wherein the computer processor is configured to        identify that the subject is currently within the given amount        of time of ovulation of the subject in response to the        identified heart rate being less than five heartbeats-per-minute        greater than the baseline heart rate.        Inventive concept 74. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 61, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the        subject during a sleeping session of the subject.        Inventive concept 75. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 74,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to analyze the        sensor signal by identifying an aspect of the sensor signal that        is exhibited at least two hours from a beginning of the sleeping        session, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        menstrual state of the subject (i) in response to the aspect of        the sensor signal that is exhibited at least two hours from the        beginning of the sleeping session, and (ii) substantially not in        response to any aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        less than two hours from the beginning of the sleeping session.        Inventive concept 76. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 74,    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured, in        response to analyzing the sensor signal, to determine a level of        motion of the subject,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to analyze the        sensor signal by identifying an aspect of the sensor signal that        is exhibited while the level of motion does not exceed a        threshold, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        menstrual state of the subject (i) in response to the aspect of        the sensor signal that is exhibited while the level of motion        does not exceed the threshold, and (ii) substantially not in        response to any aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        while the level of motion exceeds the threshold.        Inventive concept 77. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 74,    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured, in        response to analyzing the sensor signal, to identify a sleep        stage of the subject during the sleeping session,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to analyze the        sensor signal by identifying an aspect of the sensor signal that        is exhibited while the identified sleep stage is a particular        sleep stage, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        menstrual state of the subject (i) in response to the aspect of        the sensor signal that is exhibited while the identified sleep        stage is the particular sleep stage, and (ii) substantially not        in response to any aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        while the identified sleep stage is not the particular sleep        stage.        Inventive concept 78. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 77, wherein the particular sleep stage is a slow-wave        sleep stage.        Inventive concept 79. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 77, wherein the particular sleep stage is a        rapid-eye-movement sleep stage.        Inventive concept 80. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 79, wherein the identified aspect of the sensor signal        includes a heart rate variability (HRV) signal, the computer        processor being configured to identify the menstrual state of        the subject in response to the HRV signal that is exhibited        while the identified sleep stage is the particular sleep stage.        Inventive concept 81. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 74,    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured, in        response to analyzing the sensor signal, to identify an end of a        chronologically-first sleep cycle of the subject during the        sleeping session,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to analyze the        sensor signal by identifying an aspect of the sensor signal that        is exhibited following the end of the chronologically-first        sleep cycle, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        menstrual state of the subject (i) in response to the aspect of        the sensor signal that is exhibited following the end of the        chronologically-first sleep cycle, and (ii) substantially not in        response to any aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        before the end of the chronologically-first sleep cycle.        Inventive concept 82. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 81,    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured, in        response to analyzing the sensor signal, to identify an end of a        chronologically-second sleep cycle of the subject during the        sleeping session,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to analyze the        sensor signal by identifying an aspect of the sensor signal that        is exhibited following the end of the chronologically-second        sleep cycle, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        menstrual state of the subject (i) in response to the aspect of        the sensor signal that is exhibited following the end of the        chronologically-second sleep cycle, and (ii) substantially not        in response to any aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        before the end of the chronologically-second sleep cycle.        Inventive concept 83. Apparatus for monitoring a female subject,        the apparatus comprising:    -   a sensor, configured to monitor the subject and to generate a        sensor signal in response to the monitoring; and    -   a computer processor, configured to:        -   receive the sensor signal,        -   derive a cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal by            analyzing the sensor signal,        -   based upon the derived cardiac-related aspect of the sensor            signal, identify a menstrual state of the subject, and        -   generate an output in response thereto.            Inventive concept 84. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 83, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify the subject's menstrual state without determining a            temperature of the subject.            Inventive concept 85. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 83, wherein the sensor is configured not to measure            a temperature of the subject.            Inventive concept 86. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 83, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            subject without having a direct line of sight of the subject            or clothes the subject is wearing.            Inventive concept 87. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 83, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            subject without requiring compliance of the subject.            Inventive concept 88. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 83, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify the subject's menstrual state by identifying a            current menstrual state of the subject.            Inventive concept 89. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 83, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify the subject's menstrual state by predicting an            occurrence of a future menstrual state of the subject.            Inventive concept 90. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 83, wherein the sensor is configured to be disposed            upon or within a bed of the subject, and is configured to            monitor the subject automatically while the subject is in            her bed.            Inventive concept 91. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 83, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify the menstrual state of the subject, using a            machine-learning algorithm.            Inventive concept 92. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 83, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            subject without contacting the subject or clothes the            subject is wearing, and without viewing the subject or            clothes the subject is wearing.            Inventive concept 93. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 83, wherein the output includes a control signal to            a room-climate-regulation device, and the computer processor            is configured to generate the output by communicating the            control signal to the room-climate-regulation device in            response to the identified menstrual state.            Inventive concept 94. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 83, wherein the computer processor is further            configured, in response to identifying the subject's            menstrual state, to identify that the subject is likely to            experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in more than 0.5            days,    -   the computer processor being configured to generate the output        in response thereto.        Inventive concept 95. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 83, further comprising an input unit,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify        menstrual state of the subject by:        -   at least once, prior to currently receiving the sensor            signal:            -   receiving, via the input unit, an input that is                indicative of a phase of the subject's menstrual cycle,                and            -   identifying an aspect of the sensor signal at a time at                which the input was received,        -   in response to the input and the identified aspect of the            sensor signal, learning a phase-identification rule, and        -   using the phase-identification rule to identify a current            phase of the subject's menstrual cycle, based upon the            currently-received sensor signal.            Inventive concept 96. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 83-95, wherein the computer processor is            configured to identify the menstrual state of the subject by            identifying that the subject is likely to ovulate in less            than 10 days.            Inventive concept 97. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 96, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify the menstrual state of the subject by identifying            that the subject is likely to ovulate in less than five            days.            Inventive concept 98. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 96, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify the menstrual state of the subject by identifying            that the subject is likely to ovulate in more than 0.5 days.            Inventive concept 99. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 96, wherein the computer processor is configured to            derive a heart rate variability (HRV) signal from the sensor            signal, and to identify the subject's menstrual state, in            response thereto.            Inventive concept 100. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 96, further comprising an input unit,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify that        the subject is likely to ovulate in less than 10 days by:        -   at least once, prior to currently receiving the sensor            signal:            -   receiving, via the input unit, an input that is                indicative of a phase of the subject's menstrual cycle,                and            -   identifying an aspect of the sensor signal at a time at                which the input was received,        -   in response to the input and the identified aspect of the            sensor signal, learning an ovulation-prediction rule, and        -   using the ovulation-prediction rule to identify that the            subject is likely to ovulate in less than 10 days, based            upon the currently-received sensor signal.            Inventive concept 101. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 83-95,    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured, in        response to identifying the menstrual state of the subject, to        identify that the subject is likely to experience premenstrual        syndrome (PMS) in less than three days,    -   the computer processor being configured to generate the output        in response thereto.        Inventive concept 102. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 101, wherein the computer processor is configured to        derive a heart rate variability (HRV) signal from the sensor        signal, and to identify the subject's menstrual state, in        response thereto.        Inventive concept 103. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 101, further comprising an input unit,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify that        the subject is likely to experience PMS in less than three days        by:        -   at least once, prior to currently receiving the sensor            signal:            -   receiving, via the input unit, an input that is                indicative of an occurrence of PMS of the subject, and            -   identifying an aspect of the sensor signal at a time at                which the input was received,        -   in response to the input and the identified aspect of the            sensor signal, learning a PMS-prediction rule, and        -   using the PMS-prediction rule to identify that the subject            is likely to experience PMS in less than three days, based            upon the currently-received sensor signal.            Inventive concept 104. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 83-95, wherein the cardiac-related aspect            of the sensor signal includes a heart rate variability (HRV)            signal, the computer processor being configured to identify            the menstrual state of the subject in response to the HRV            signal.            Inventive concept 105. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 104, wherein, in response to the HRV signal, the            computer processor is configured to identify that a current            phase of the subject's menstrual cycle is a late follicular            phase.            Inventive concept 106. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 105, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify that the current phase of the subject's menstrual            cycle is the late follicular phase in response to an aspect            of a component of a power spectrum of the HRV signal.            Inventive concept 107. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 106, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify that the current phase of the subject's menstrual            cycle is the late follicular phase by identifying that the            component of the power spectrum of the HRV signal has an            amplitude that exceeds a threshold.            Inventive concept 108. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 106, wherein the component of the power spectrum of            the HRV signal lies between 0.1 and 0.5 Hz, the computer            processor being configured to identify that the current            phase of the subject's menstrual cycle is the late            follicular phase in response to an aspect of the component            of the power spectrum.            Inventive concept 109. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 83-95, wherein the cardiac-related aspect            of the sensor signal includes a heart rate of the subject,            and wherein the computer processor is configured to identify            a current phase of the menstrual cycle of the subject by            comparing the derived heart rate to a baseline heart rate.            Inventive concept 110. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 109, wherein the computer processor is configured,            in response to the comparing, to:    -   ascertain that the derived heart rate is greater than the        baseline heart rate; and    -   in response thereto, identify the current phase of the menstrual        cycle of the subject by identifying that the subject is        currently within a given amount of time of ovulation of the        subject.        Inventive concept 111. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 110, wherein the computer processor is configured to        identify that the subject is currently within the given amount        of time of ovulation of the subject by identifying that less        than the given amount of time has transpired since the subject        ovulated.        Inventive concept 112. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 110, wherein the computer processor is configured, in        response to ascertaining that the identified heart rate is        greater than the baseline heart rate, to identify that the        subject is currently within less than two days of ovulation of        the subject.        Inventive concept 113. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 110, wherein the computer processor is configured to        identify that the subject is currently within the given amount        of time of ovulation of the subject in response to the derived        heart rate being less than five heartbeats-per-minute greater        than the baseline heart rate.        Inventive concept 114. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 83-95, wherein the sensor is configured to        monitor the subject during a sleeping session of the subject.        Inventive concept 115. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 114,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to derive the        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal by identifying an        aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited at least two hours        from a beginning of the sleeping session, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        menstrual state of the subject (i) in response to the        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited at        least two hours from the beginning of the sleeping session,        and (ii) substantially not in response to any aspect of the        sensor signal that is exhibited less than two hours from the        beginning of the sleeping session.        Inventive concept 116. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 114,    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured, in        response to analyzing the sensor signal, to determine a level of        motion of the subject,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to derive the        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal by deriving the        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        while the level of motion does not exceed a threshold, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        menstrual state of the subject (i) in response to the        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        while the level of motion does not exceed the threshold,        and (ii) substantially not in response to any aspect of the        sensor signal that is exhibited while the level of motion        exceeds the threshold.        Inventive concept 117. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 114,    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured, in        response to analyzing the sensor signal, to identify a sleep        stage of the subject during the sleeping session,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to derive the        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal by deriving a        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        while the identified sleep stage is a particular sleep stage,        and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        menstrual state of the subject (i) in response to the        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        while the identified sleep stage is the particular sleep stage,        and (ii) substantially not in response to any aspect of the        sensor signal that is exhibited while the identified sleep stage        is not the particular sleep stage.        Inventive concept 118. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 117, wherein the particular sleep stage is a slow-wave        sleep stage.        Inventive concept 119. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 117, wherein the particular sleep stage is a        rapid-eye-movement sleep stage.        Inventive concept 120. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 119, wherein the cardiac-related aspect of the sensor        signal includes a heart rate variability (HRV) signal,    -   the computer processor being configured to identify the current        phase of the menstrual cycle of the subject in response to the        HRV signal that is exhibited while the identified sleep stage is        the particular sleep stage.        Inventive concept 121. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 114,    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured, in        response to analyzing the sensor signal, to identify an end of a        chronologically-first sleep cycle of the subject during the        sleeping session,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to derive the        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal by deriving a        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        following the end of the chronologically-first sleep cycle, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        menstrual state of the subject (i) in response to the        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        following the end of the chronologically-first sleep cycle,        and (ii) substantially not in response to any aspect of the        sensor signal that is exhibited before the end of the        chronologically-first sleep cycle.        Inventive concept 122. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 121,    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured, in        response to analyzing the sensor signal, to identify an end of a        chronologically-second sleep cycle of the subject during the        sleeping session,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to derive the        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal by deriving a        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        following the end of the chronologically-second sleep cycle, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        menstrual state of the subject (i) in response to the        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        following the end of the chronologically-second sleep cycle,        and (ii) substantially not in response to any aspect of the        sensor signal that is exhibited before the end of the        chronologically-second sleep cycle.        Inventive concept 123. Apparatus for monitoring a female        subject, the apparatus comprising:    -   a sensor, configured to monitor the subject without requiring        compliance of the subject, and to generate a sensor signal in        response to the monitoring; and    -   a computer processor, configured to:        -   receive the sensor signal,        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   in response to the analyzing, identify whether the subject            is in a pregnant state or a non-pregnant state, and        -   generate an output in response thereto.            Inventive concept 124. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 123, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify whether the subject is in the pregnant state or the            non-pregnant state without determining a temperature of the            subject.            Inventive concept 125. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 123, wherein the sensor is configured not to measure            a temperature of the subject.            Inventive concept 126. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 123, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            subject without having a direct line of sight of the subject            or clothes the subject is wearing.            Inventive concept 127. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 123, wherein the sensor is configured to be disposed            upon or within a bed of the subject, and is configured to            monitor the subject automatically while the subject is in            her bed.            Inventive concept 128. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 123, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            subject without contacting the subject or clothes the            subject is wearing, and without viewing the subject or            clothes the subject is wearing.            Inventive concept 129. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 123, wherein the output includes a control signal to            a room-climate-regulation device, and the computer processor            is configured to generate the output by communicating the            control signal to the room-climate-regulation device in            response to the identified state.            Inventive concept 130. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 123, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify whether the subject is in the pregnant state or the            non-pregnant state, using a machine-learning algorithm.            Inventive concept 131. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 123-130, wherein the computer processor            is configured:    -   in response to the analyzing, to identify an aspect of the        sensor signal selected from the group consisting of: a        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal, and a        respiration-related aspect of the sensor signal, and to identify        whether the subject is in the pregnant state or the non-pregnant        state, in response to the identified aspect.        Inventive concept 132. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 131, further comprising an input unit,    -   wherein the identified aspect of the sensor signal is a        currently-identified aspect of the sensor signal, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify whether        the subject is in the pregnant state or the non-pregnant state        by:        -   at least once, prior to the identification of the            currently-identified aspect of the sensor signal:            -   receiving, via the input unit, an input that is                indicative of whether the subject is pregnant, and            -   identifying an aspect of the sensor signal at a time at                which the input was received,        -   in response to the input and the identified aspect of the            sensor signal, learning a pregnancy-identification rule, and        -   using the pregnancy-identification rule to identify whether            the subject is in the pregnant state or the non-pregnant            state.            Inventive concept 133. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 131,    -   wherein the identified aspect of the sensor signal includes a        respiratory rate of the subject, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to (i) identify        that the subject is pregnant by ascertaining that the identified        respiratory rate is not lower than a baseline respiratory rate,        and (ii) identify that the subject is not pregnant by        ascertaining that the identified respiratory rate is lower than        the baseline respiratory rate.        Inventive concept 134. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 131,    -   wherein the identified aspect of the sensor signal includes a        heart rate of the subject, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to (i) identify        that the subject is pregnant by ascertaining that the identified        heart rate is not lower than a baseline heart rate, and (ii)        identify that the subject is not pregnant by ascertaining that        the identified heart rate is lower than the baseline heart rate.        Inventive concept 135. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 134,    -   wherein the identified heart rate of the subject is a        currently-identified heart rate, and    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured to identify        the baseline heart rate in response to a previously-identified        heart rate of the subject that was identified less than fourteen        days prior to identifying the currently-identified heart rate.        Inventive concept 136. Apparatus for monitoring a female        subject, the apparatus comprising:    -   a sensor, configured to monitor the subject without requiring        compliance of the subject, and to generate a sensor signal in        response to the monitoring; and    -   a computer processor, configured to:        -   receive the sensor signal,        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   in response to the analyzing, identify a menstrual state of            the subject, and        -   generate an output in response thereto.            Inventive concept 137. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 136, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify the subject's menstrual state without determining a            temperature of the subject.            Inventive concept 138. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 136, wherein the sensor is configured not to measure            a temperature of the subject.            Inventive concept 139. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 136, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            subject without having a direct line of sight of the subject            or clothes the subject is wearing.            Inventive concept 140. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 136, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify the subject's menstrual state by identifying a            current menstrual state of the subject.            Inventive concept 141. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 136, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify the subject's menstrual state by predicting an            occurrence of a future menstrual state of the subject.            Inventive concept 142. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 136, wherein the sensor is configured to be disposed            upon or within a bed of the subject, and is configured to            monitor the subject automatically while the subject is in            her bed.            Inventive concept 143. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 136, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify the menstrual state of the subject, using a            machine-learning algorithm.            Inventive concept 144. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 136, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            subject without contacting the subject or clothes the            subject is wearing, and without viewing the subject or            clothes the subject is wearing.            Inventive concept 145. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 136, wherein the output includes a control signal to            a room-climate-regulation device, and the computer processor            is configured to generate the output by communicating the            control signal to the room-climate-regulation device in            response to the identified menstrual state.            Inventive concept 146. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 136, wherein the computer processor is further            configured, in response to identifying the subject's            menstrual state, to identify that the subject is likely to            experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in more than 0.5            days,    -   the computer processor being configured to generate the output        in response thereto.        Inventive concept 147. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 136-146, wherein the computer processor is        configured to identify the menstrual state of the subject by        identifying that the subject is likely to ovulate in less than        10 days.        Inventive concept 148. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 147, wherein the computer processor is configured to        identify the menstrual state of the subject by identifying that        the subject is likely to ovulate in less than five days.        Inventive concept 149. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 147, wherein the computer processor is configured to        identify the menstrual state of the subject by identifying that        the subject is likely to ovulate in more than 0.5 days.        Inventive concept 150. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 147, wherein the computer processor is configured to        derive a heart rate variability (HRV) signal from the sensor        signal, and to identify the subject's menstrual state, in        response thereto.        Inventive concept 151. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 147, further comprising an input unit,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify that        the subject is likely to ovulate in less than 10 days by:        -   at least once, prior to currently receiving the sensor            signal:            -   receiving, via the input unit, an input that is                indicative of a phase of the subject's menstrual cycle,                and            -   identifying an aspect of the sensor signal at a time at                which the input was received,        -   in response to the input and the identified aspect of the            sensor signal, learning an ovulation-prediction rule, and        -   using the ovulation-prediction rule to identify that the            subject is likely to ovulate in less than 10 days, based            upon the currently-received sensor signal.            Inventive concept 152. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 136-146,    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured, in        response to identifying the menstrual state of the subject, to        identify that the subject is likely to experience premenstrual        syndrome (PMS) in less than three days,    -   the computer processor being configured to generate the output        in response thereto.        Inventive concept 153. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 152, wherein the computer processor is configured to        derive a heart rate variability (HRV) signal from the sensor        signal, and to identify the subject's menstrual state, in        response thereto.        Inventive concept 154. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 152, further comprising an input unit,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify that        the subject is likely to experience PMS in less than three days        by:        -   at least once, prior to currently receiving the sensor            signal:            -   receiving, via the input unit, an input that is                indicative of an occurrence of PMS of the subject, and            -   identifying an aspect of the sensor signal at a time at                which the input was received,        -   in response to the input and the identified aspect of the            sensor signal, learning a PMS-prediction rule, and        -   using the PMS-prediction rule to identify that the subject            is likely to experience PMS in less than three days, based            upon the currently-received sensor signal.            Inventive concept 155. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 136-146, wherein the computer processor            is configured:    -   in response to the analyzing, to identify an aspect of the        sensor signal selected from the group consisting of: a        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal, and a        respiration-related aspect of the sensor signal, and    -   to identify the menstrual state of the subject, in response to        the identified aspect.        Inventive concept 156. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 155, wherein the identified aspect of the sensor signal        includes a respiratory rate of the subject, and wherein the        computer processor is configured to identify the menstrual state        of the subject by comparing the identified respiratory rate to a        baseline respiratory rate.        Inventive concept 157. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 155, further comprising an input unit,    -   wherein the identified aspect of the sensor signal is a        currently-identified aspect of the sensor signal, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        current phase of the menstrual cycle by:        -   at least once, prior to the identification of the            currently-identified aspect of the sensor signal:            -   receiving, via the input unit, an input that is                indicative of a phase of the subject's menstrual cycle,                and            -   identifying an aspect of the sensor signal at a time at                which the input was received,        -   in response to the input and the identified aspect of the            sensor signal, learning a phase-identification rule, and        -   using the phase-identification rule to identify the            menstrual state of the subject.            Inventive concept 158. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 155, wherein the identified aspect of the sensor            signal includes a heart rate variability (HRV) signal, the            computer processor being configured to identify the            menstrual state in response to the HRV signal.            Inventive concept 159. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 158, wherein, in response to the HRV signal, the            computer processor is configured to identify that the            current phase of the subject's menstrual cycle is a late            follicular phase.            Inventive concept 160. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 159, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify that the current phase of the subject's menstrual            cycle is the late follicular phase in response to an aspect            of a component of a power spectrum of the HRV signal.            Inventive concept 161. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 160, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify that the current phase of the subject's menstrual            cycle is the late follicular phase by identifying that the            component of the power spectrum of the HRV signal has an            amplitude that exceeds a threshold.            Inventive concept 162. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 160, wherein the component of the power spectrum of            the HRV signal lies between 0.1 and 0.5 Hz, the computer            processor being configured to identify that the current            phase of the subject's menstrual cycle is the late            follicular phase in response to an aspect of the component            of the power spectrum.            Inventive concept 163. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 155, wherein the identified aspect of the sensor            signal includes a heart rate of the subject, and wherein the            computer processor is configured to identify the menstrual            state of the subject by comparing the identified heart rate            to a baseline heart rate.            Inventive concept 164. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 163, wherein the computer processor is configured,            in response to the comparing, to:    -   ascertain that the identified heart rate is greater than the        baseline heart rate; and    -   in response thereto, identify the menstrual state of the subject        by identifying that the subject is currently within a given        amount of time of ovulation of the subject.        Inventive concept 165. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 164, wherein the computer processor is configured to        identify that the subject is currently within the given amount        of time of ovulation of the subject by identifying that less        than the given amount of time has transpired since the subject        ovulated.        Inventive concept 166. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 164, wherein the computer processor is configured, in        response to ascertaining that the identified heart rate is        greater than the baseline heart rate, to identify that the        subject is currently within less than two days of ovulation of        the subject.        Inventive concept 167. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 164, wherein the computer processor is configured to        identify that the subject is currently within the given amount        of time of ovulation of the subject in response to the        identified heart rate being less than five heartbeats-per-minute        greater than the baseline heart rate.        Inventive concept 168. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 155, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the        subject during a sleeping session of the subject.        Inventive concept 169. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 168,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to analyze the        sensor signal by identifying an aspect of the sensor signal that        is exhibited at least two hours from a beginning of the sleeping        session, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        menstrual state of the subject (i) in response to the aspect of        the sensor signal that is exhibited at least two hours from the        beginning of the sleeping session, and (ii) substantially not in        response to any aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        less than two hours from the beginning of the sleeping session.        Inventive concept 170. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 168,    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured, in        response to analyzing the sensor signal, to determine a level of        motion of the subject,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to analyze the        sensor signal by identifying an aspect of the sensor signal that        is exhibited while the level of motion does not exceed a        threshold, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        menstrual state of the subject (i) in response to the aspect of        the sensor signal that is exhibited while the level of motion        does not exceed the threshold, and (ii) substantially not in        response to any aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        while the level of motion exceeds the threshold.        Inventive concept 171. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 168,    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured, in        response to analyzing the sensor signal, to identify a sleep        stage of the subject during the sleeping session,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to analyze the        sensor signal by identifying an aspect of the sensor signal that        is exhibited while the identified sleep stage is a particular        sleep stage, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        menstrual state of the subject (i) in response to the aspect of        the sensor signal that is exhibited while the identified sleep        stage is the particular sleep stage, and (ii) substantially not        in response to any aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        while the identified sleep stage is not the particular sleep        stage.        Inventive concept 172. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 171, wherein the particular sleep stage is a slow-wave        sleep stage.        Inventive concept 173. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 171, wherein the particular sleep stage is a        rapid-eye-movement sleep stage.        Inventive concept 174. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 171, wherein the identified aspect of the sensor signal        includes a heart rate variability (HRV) signal, the computer        processor being configured to identify the menstrual state of        the subject in response to the HRV signal that is exhibited        while the identified sleep stage is the particular sleep stage.        Inventive concept 175. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 168,    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured, in        response to analyzing the sensor signal, to identify an end of a        chronologically-first sleep cycle of the subject during the        sleeping session,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to analyze the        sensor signal by identifying an aspect of the sensor signal that        is exhibited following the end of the chronologically-first        sleep cycle, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        menstrual state of the subject (i) in response to the aspect of        the sensor signal that is exhibited following the end of the        chronologically-first sleep cycle, and (ii) substantially not in        response to any aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        before the end of the chronologically-first sleep cycle.        Inventive concept 176. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 175,    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured, in        response to analyzing the sensor signal, to identify an end of a        chronologically-second sleep cycle of the subject during the        sleeping session,    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to analyze the        sensor signal by identifying an aspect of the sensor signal that        is exhibited following the end of the chronologically-second        sleep cycle, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify the        menstrual state of the subject (i) in response to the aspect of        the sensor signal that is exhibited following the end of the        chronologically-second sleep cycle, and (ii) substantially not        in response to any aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        before the end of the chronologically-second sleep cycle.        Inventive concept 177. Apparatus for monitoring a female        subject, the apparatus comprising:    -   a sensor, configured to monitor the subject and to generate a        sensor signal in response to the monitoring; and    -   a computer processor, configured to:        -   receive the sensor signal,        -   derive a cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal by            analyzing the sensor signal,        -   based upon the derived cardiac-related aspect of the sensor            signal, identify whether the subject is in a pregnant state            or a non-pregnant state, and        -   generate an output in response thereto.            Inventive concept 178. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 177, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify whether the subject is in the pregnant state or the            non-pregnant state without determining a temperature of the            subject.            Inventive concept 179. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 177, wherein the sensor is configured not to measure            a temperature of the subject.            Inventive concept 180. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 177, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            subject without having a direct line of sight of the subject            or clothes the subject is wearing.            Inventive concept 181. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 177, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            subject without requiring compliance of the subject.            Inventive concept 182. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 177, wherein the sensor is configured to be disposed            upon or within a bed of the subject, and is configured to            monitor the subject automatically while the subject is in            her bed.            Inventive concept 183. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 177, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            subject without contacting the subject or clothes the            subject is wearing, and without viewing the subject or            clothes the subject is wearing.            Inventive concept 184. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 177, wherein the output includes a control signal to            a room-climate-regulation device, and the computer processor            is configured to generate the output by communicating the            control signal to the room-climate-regulation device in            response to the identified state.            Inventive concept 185. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 177, wherein, based upon the derived cardiac-related            aspect, the computer processor is configured to identify            whether the subject is in the pregnant state or the            non-pregnant state, using a machine-learning algorithm.            Inventive concept 186. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 177-185, wherein the computer processor            is configured to derive the cardiac-related aspect of the            sensor signal, by deriving a heart rate of the subject, and            the computer processor is configured to (i) identify that            the subject is pregnant by ascertaining that a derived heart            rate is not lower than a baseline heart rate, and (ii)            identify that the subject is not pregnant by ascertaining            that the derived heart rate is lower than the baseline heart            rate.            Inventive concept 187. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 186,    -   wherein the derived heart rate of the subject is a current heart        rate of the subject, and    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured to identify        the baseline heart rate in response to a previously-identified        heart rate of the subject that was identified less than fourteen        days prior to deriving the currently-derived heart rate.        Inventive concept 188. Apparatus for monitoring a female        subject, the apparatus comprising:    -   a sensor, configured to monitor the subject without contacting        the subject or clothes the subject is wearing, and without        viewing the subject or clothes the subject is wearing, and to        generate a sensor signal in response to the monitoring; and    -   a computer processor, configured to:        -   receive the sensor signal,        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   in response to the analyzing, identify whether the subject            is in a pregnant state or a non-pregnant state, and        -   generate an output in response thereto.            Inventive concept 189. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 188, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify whether the subject is in the pregnant state or the            non-pregnant state without determining a temperature of the            subject.            Inventive concept 190. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 188, wherein the sensor is configured not to measure            a temperature of the subject.            Inventive concept 191. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 188, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            subject without having a direct line of sight of the subject            or clothes the subject is wearing.            Inventive concept 192. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 188, wherein the sensor is configured to be disposed            upon or within a bed of the subject, and is configured to            monitor the subject automatically while the subject is in            her bed.            Inventive concept 193. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 188, wherein the output includes a control signal to            a room-climate-regulation device, and the computer processor            is configured to generate the output by communicating the            control signal to the room-climate-regulation device in            response to the identified state.            Inventive concept 194. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 188, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify whether the subject is in the pregnant state or the            non-pregnant state, using a machine-learning algorithm.            Inventive concept 195. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 188-194, wherein the computer processor            is configured:    -   in response to the analyzing, to identify an aspect of the        sensor signal selected from the group consisting of: a        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal, and a        respiration-related aspect of the sensor signal, and    -   to identify whether the subject is in the pregnant state or the        non-pregnant state, in response to the identified aspect.        Inventive concept 196. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 195, further comprising an input unit,    -   wherein the identified aspect of the sensor signal is a        currently-identified aspect of the sensor signal, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify whether        the subject is in the pregnant state or the non-pregnant state        by:        -   at least once, prior to the identification of the            currently-identified aspect of the sensor signal:            -   receiving, via the input unit, an input that is                indicative of whether the subject is pregnant, and            -   identifying an aspect of the sensor signal at a time at                which the input was received,        -   in response to the input and the identified aspect of the            sensor signal, learning a pregnancy-identification rule, and        -   using the pregnancy-identification rule to identify whether            the subject is in the pregnant state or the non-pregnant            state.            Inventive concept 197. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 195,    -   wherein the identified aspect of the sensor signal includes a        respiratory rate of the subject, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to (i) identify        that the subject is pregnant by ascertaining that the identified        respiratory rate is not lower than a baseline respiratory rate,        and (ii) identify that the subject is not pregnant by        ascertaining that the identified respiratory rate is lower than        the baseline respiratory rate.        Inventive concept 198. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 195,    -   wherein the identified aspect of the sensor signal includes a        heart rate of the subject, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to (i) identify        that the subject is pregnant by ascertaining that the identified        heart rate is not lower than a baseline heart rate, and (ii)        identify that the subject is not pregnant by ascertaining that        the identified heart rate is lower than the baseline heart rate.        Inventive concept 199. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 198,    -   wherein the identified heart rate of the subject is a        currently-identified heart rate, and    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured to identify        the baseline heart rate in response to a previously-identified        heart rate of the subject that was identified less than fourteen        days prior to identifying the currently-identified heart rate.        Inventive concept 200. Apparatus for monitoring a female subject        and for use with a bed, the apparatus comprising:    -   a sensor configured to be disposed upon or within the bed, to        automatically monitor the subject while the subject is in the        bed, and to generate a sensor signal in response to the        monitoring; and    -   a computer processor, configured to:        -   receive the sensor signal,        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   in response to the analyzing, identify whether the subject            is in a pregnant state or a non-pregnant state, and        -   generate an output in response thereto.            Inventive concept 201. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 200, wherein the bed includes a mattress, and            wherein the sensor is configured to be disposed underneath            the mattress and to automatically monitor the subject while            the subject is lying upon the mattress.            Inventive concept 202. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 200, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify whether the subject is in the pregnant state or the            non-pregnant state without determining a temperature of the            subject.            Inventive concept 203. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 200, wherein the sensor is configured not to measure            a temperature of the subject.            Inventive concept 204. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 200, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            subject without having a direct line of sight of the subject            or clothes the subject is wearing.            Inventive concept 205. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 200, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            subject without requiring compliance of the subject.            Inventive concept 206. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 200, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            subject without contacting the subject or clothes the            subject is wearing, and without viewing the subject or            clothes the subject is wearing.            Inventive concept 207. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 200, wherein the output includes a control signal to            a room-climate-regulation device, and the computer processor            is configured to generate the output by communicating the            control signal to the room-climate-regulation device in            response to the identified state.            Inventive concept 208. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 200, wherein the computer processor is configured to            identify whether the subject is in the pregnant state or the            non-pregnant state, using a machine-learning algorithm.            Inventive concept 209. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 200-208, wherein the computer processor            is configured:    -   in response to the analyzing, to identify an aspect of the        sensor signal selected from the group consisting of: a        cardiac-related aspect of the sensor signal, and a        respiration-related aspect of the sensor signal, and    -   to identify whether the subject is in the pregnant state or the        non-pregnant state, in response to the identified aspect.        Inventive concept 210. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 209, further comprising an input unit,    -   wherein the identified aspect of the sensor signal is a        currently-identified aspect of the sensor signal, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to identify whether        the subject is in the pregnant state or the non-pregnant state        by:        -   at least once, prior to the identification of the            currently-identified aspect of the sensor signal:            -   receiving, via the input unit, an input that is                indicative of whether the subject is pregnant, and            -   identifying an aspect of the sensor signal at a time at                which the input was received,        -   in response to the input and the identified aspect of the            sensor signal, learning a pregnancy-identification rule, and        -   using the pregnancy-identification rule to identify whether            the subject is in the pregnant state or the non-pregnant            state.            Inventive concept 211. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 209,    -   wherein the identified aspect of the sensor signal includes a        respiratory rate of the subject, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to (i) identify        that the subject is pregnant by ascertaining that the identified        respiratory rate is not lower than a baseline respiratory rate,        and (ii) identify that the subject is not pregnant by        ascertaining that the identified respiratory rate is lower than        the baseline respiratory rate.        Inventive concept 212. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 209,    -   wherein the identified aspect of the sensor signal includes a        heart rate of the subject, and    -   wherein the computer processor is configured to (i) identify        that the subject is pregnant by ascertaining that the identified        heart rate is not lower than a baseline heart rate, and (ii)        identify that the subject is not pregnant by ascertaining that        the identified heart rate is lower than the baseline heart rate.        Inventive concept 213. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 212,    -   wherein the identified heart rate of the subject is a        currently-identified heart rate, and    -   wherein the computer processor is further configured to identify        the baseline heart rate in response to a previously-identified        heart rate of the subject that was identified less than fourteen        days prior to identifying the currently-identified heart rate.

There is further provided the following inventive concepts, inaccordance with some applications of the present invention:

Inventive concept 1. Apparatus for use with a speaker, the apparatuscomprising:

-   -   a sensor configured to monitor a subject and to generate a        sensor signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   control a property of a sound signal, in response to (a) the            analyzing of the sensor signal, and (b) a historical            physiological parameter of the subject that was exhibited in            response to a historical sound signal, and        -   drive the speaker to play the sound signal.            Inventive concept 2. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 1, wherein the control unit is configured to:    -   at a first time, set the property of the sound signal to a        particular setting, and drive the speaker to play the sound        signal, and    -   at a second time following the first time, in response to (a)        the sensor signal indicating that the subject has awakened        prematurely, and (b) the subject having fallen asleep at the        first time in response to the setting of the property to the        particular setting:        -   set the property of the sound signal to the particular            setting, and        -   drive the speaker to play the sound signal.            Inventive concept 3. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 1, wherein the apparatus is for use with a mechanism            selected from the group consisting of: a vibrating            mechanism, and a rocking mechanism, and wherein the control            unit is further configured to control the selected mechanism            in response to the analyzing of the sensor signal.            Inventive concept 4. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 1, wherein the control unit is configured to:    -   at least by analyzing the sensor signal, ascertain that the        subject is trying to fall asleep, and    -   control the property of the sound signal, in response thereto.        Inventive concept 5. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 1, wherein the control unit is configured to:    -   by analyzing the sensor signal, ascertain a sleep stage of the        subject, and    -   control the property of the sound signal, in response to the        ascertained sleep stage.        Inventive concept 6. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 1-5, wherein the historical physiological        parameter is selected from the group consisting of: a quality of        sleep, a time-to-fall-asleep, a heart-rate-variability, a change        in heart rate, a change in respiratory rate, a change in        heart-rate-variability, a change in blood pressure, a rate of        change in heart rate, a rate of change in respiratory rate, a        rate of change in heart-rate-variability, and a rate of change        in blood pressure, the control unit being configured to control        the property of the sound signal in response to the selected        historical physiological parameter.        Inventive concept 7. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 1-5, wherein the control unit is configured        to select content of the sound signal in response to a manual        input.        Inventive concept 8. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 1-5, wherein the property is selected from        the group consisting of: content, genre, volume, frequency, and        phase-shift, the control unit being configured to control the        selected property.        Inventive concept 9. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 8,    -   wherein the selected property is the frequency, and    -   wherein the control unit is configured to control the frequency        of the sound signal by setting the frequency to be an offset        less than a rate selected from the group consisting of: a heart        rate of the subject, and a respiratory rate of the subject,    -   the control unit being configured to control the offset in        response to analyzing the sensor signal.        Inventive concept 10. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 8, wherein the selected property is a phase-shift with        respect to a signal selected from the group consisting of: a        cardiac signal of the subject, and a respiratory signal of the        subject, the control unit being configured to control the        phase-shift with respect to the selected signal.        Inventive concept 11. Apparatus for use with an alerting device,        the apparatus comprising:    -   at least one sensor configured to monitor a care-provider and a        care-receiver, and to generate a signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the signal,        -   in response thereto, drive the alerting device to alert the            care-provider to provide care for the care-receiver.            Inventive concept 12. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 11, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to            monitor the care-provider and the care-receiver without            contacting or viewing the care-provider, without contacting            or viewing clothes the care-provider is wearing, without            contacting or viewing the care-receiver, and without            contacting or viewing clothes the care-receiver is wearing.            Inventive concept 13. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 11 or 12, wherein the control unit is configured to            drive the alerting device to alert the care-provider in            response to ascertaining, by analyzing the signal, (a) a            sleep stage of the care-provider, and (b) a sleep stage of            the care-receiver.            Inventive concept 14. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 11 or 12, wherein the control unit is configured to            drive the alerting device to alert the care-provider in            response to historical sleep-related data of a person            selected from the group consisting of: the care-provider,            and the care-receiver.            Inventive concept 15. Apparatus for use with a mechanism            selected from the group consisting of: a vibrating            mechanism, and a rocking mechanism, the apparatus            comprising:    -   a sensor configured to monitor a subject and to generate a        sensor signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the sensor signal, and        -   control the selected mechanism in response thereto by            sending a control signal to the selected mechanism.            Inventive concept 16. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 15, wherein, in response to analyzing the sensor            signal, the control unit is configured to:    -   ascertain that the subject is not sleeping, and    -   activate the selected mechanism in response thereto.        Inventive concept 17. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 15, wherein the control unit is configured to control        the selected mechanism, further in response to historical        sleep-related data of the subject.        Inventive concept 18. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 15-17, wherein the control unit is configured        to:    -   at a first time:        -   vary a parameter of the selected mechanism, the parameter            being selected from the group consisting of: a vibration            frequency, a vibration amplitude, a rocking frequency, and a            rocking amplitude, and        -   by analyzing the sensor signal, identify a value of the            selected parameter that is more conducive to sleep of the            subject, relative to other values, and    -   at a second time following the first time, set the selected        parameter to the identified value.        Inventive concept 19. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 15-17, wherein the control unit is configured        to:    -   at a first time, set a parameter of the selected mechanism to a        particular value by sending the control signal to the selected        mechanism, and    -   at a second time following the first time, in response to (a)        the sensor signal indicating that the subject has awakened        prematurely, and (b) the subject having fallen asleep at the        first time in response to the setting of the parameter to the        particular value, set the parameter of the selected mechanism to        the particular value.        Inventive concept 20. A method for use with a home appliance,        the method comprising:    -   using a sensor to monitor sleep of a subject and to generate a        signal in response thereto; and    -   using a control unit:        -   analyzing the signal,        -   in response thereto, ascertaining a sleep stage of the            subject, and        -   in response thereto, controlling the home appliance.            Inventive concept 21. The method according to inventive            concept 20, wherein using the sensor comprises using a            motion sensor.            Inventive concept 22. The method according to inventive            concept 20, wherein using the sensor to monitor the sleep of            the subject comprises using the sensor to monitor the sleep            of the subject without contacting or viewing the subject,            and without contacting or viewing clothes the subject is            wearing.            Inventive concept 23. The method according to inventive            concept 20, wherein controlling the home appliance comprises            controlling the home appliance in response to historical            sleep-related data of the subject.            Inventive concept 24. The method according to any one of            inventive concepts 20-23, wherein the home appliance is            selected from the group consisting of: a washing machine, a            dryer, an air conditioner, a heater, a refrigerator, a            freezer, and a dishwasher, the method comprising controlling            the selected home appliance.            Inventive concept 25. The method according to any one of            inventive concepts 20-23, wherein controlling the home            appliance comprises inhibiting activation of the home            appliance, in response to ascertaining that the sleep stage            of the subject is a light-sleep stage.            Inventive concept 26. The method according to any one of            inventive concepts 20-23, wherein controlling the home            appliance comprises activating the home appliance, in            response to ascertaining that the sleep stage of the subject            is a slow-wave sleep stage.            Inventive concept 27. Apparatus for use with a first            noise-making device and a second noise-making device, the            apparatus comprising:    -   a sensor configured to monitor sleep of a subject and to        generate a sensor signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   receive a device signal from the second noise-making device,        -   in response to (a) analyzing the sensor signal, and (b) the            device signal, ascertain that the subject is likely to            awaken due to an upcoming activation of the second            noise-making device, and        -   in response thereto, activate the first noise-making device.            Inventive concept 28. Apparatus comprising:    -   a sensor configured to monitor sleep of a baby, and to generate        a signal in response thereto;    -   an electromechanical arm; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the signal, and        -   in response thereto, drive the electromechanical arm to            deliver a comfort-inducing object to the baby.            Inventive concept 29. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 28, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            sleep of the baby without contacting or viewing the baby,            and without contacting or viewing clothes the baby is            wearing.            Inventive concept 30. Apparatus comprising:    -   a sensor configured to monitor a baby, and to generate a signal        in response thereto; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the signal,        -   in response thereto, ascertain that a mouth of the baby is            performing a sucking motion, and        -   in response thereto, generate an alert.            Inventive concept 31. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 30, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            sleep of the baby without contacting or viewing the baby,            and without contacting or viewing clothes the baby is            wearing.            Inventive concept 32. Apparatus comprising:    -   a sensor configured to monitor a baby, and to generate a signal        in response thereto;    -   an electromechanical arm; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the signal,        -   in response thereto, ascertain that a mouth of the baby is            performing a sucking motion, and        -   in response thereto, drive the electromechanical arm to            deliver a comfort-inducing object to the baby.            Inventive concept 33. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 32, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            baby without contacting or viewing the baby, and without            contacting or viewing clothes the baby is wearing.            Inventive concept 34. A method comprising:    -   using a sensor to monitor sleep of a subject, and to generate a        signal in response thereto; and    -   using a control unit:        -   accepting an input indicative of a person desiring to            perform an activity that is potentially disturbing to the            sleep of the subject,        -   analyzing the signal,        -   in response to analyzing the signal, identifying a time            during which the activity is likely to be less disturbing to            the sleep of the subject, relative to another time, and        -   generating a notification indicating a suitability of            performing the activity at the identified time.            Inventive concept 35. The method according to inventive            concept 34, wherein using the sensor comprises using a            motion sensor.            Inventive concept 36. Apparatus for use with a plurality of            patients requiring respective care-provision tasks, the            apparatus comprising:    -   a plurality of sensors configured to monitor sleep of the        patients, and to generate a plurality of signals in response        thereto; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the signals,        -   in response thereto, ascertain respective sleep stages of            the patients,        -   in response to the respective sleep stages, determine a            prioritization of at least one of the care-provision tasks            over at least one other of the care-provision tasks, and        -   generate an output indicative of the prioritization.            Inventive concept 37. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 36, further comprising a location sensing system            that comprises a plurality of location sensors, the location            sensing system being configured to:    -   identify respective locations of a plurality of care-providers,        and    -   generate a location-sensing-system signal in response thereto,    -   wherein the control unit is configured to determine the        prioritization further in response to the        location-sensing-system signal.        Inventive concept 38. Apparatus for ascertaining that a subject        is likely to be resting on a resting surface, the apparatus        comprising:    -   a sensor configured to monitor a resting surface and to generate        a sensor signal in response thereto; and    -   a processor configured to:        -   identify a level of correspondence between the sensor signal            and a signal generated by a handheld telecommunications            device of the subject, and        -   in response to the level of correspondence, generate an            output that is indicative of whether the subject is likely            to be resting on the resting surface.            Inventive concept 39. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 38,    -   wherein the processor is configured to:        -   ascertain, for a plurality of time periods, (a) a number N1            of the time periods during which the level of correspondence            between the sensor signal and the signal generated by the            handheld telecommunications device is greater than a            correspondence threshold, and (b) a number N2 of the time            periods during which the level of correspondence between the            sensor signal and the signal generated by the handheld            telecommunications device is not greater than the            correspondence threshold, and        -   generate the output in response to a relationship between N1            and N2.        -   Inventive concept 40. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 39, wherein the processor is configured to generate            the output in response to a ratio of N1 to N2.            Inventive concept 41. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 38-40, wherein the processor is further            configured to, by periodically analyzing the signal            generated by the telecommunications device, ascertain that            the telecommunications device is periodically used by the            subject when the subject is not on the resting surface, and            wherein the processor is configured to identify the level of            correspondence at least partially in response thereto.            Inventive concept 42. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 38-40, wherein the telecommunications            device includes a device-movement sensor configured to            detect movement of the telecommunications device and to            generate a device-movement signal in response thereto, and            wherein the processor is configured to:    -   identify the level of correspondence between the sensor signal        and the signal generated by the handheld telecommunications        device of the subject by identifying a level of correspondence        between the sensor signal and the device-movement signal, and    -   in response to the level of correspondence between the sensor        signal and the device-movement signal, generate the output.        Inventive concept 43. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 42, wherein the processor is configured to:    -   by analyzing the sensor signal, ascertain that a person is        resting on the resting surface,    -   by analyzing the device-movement signal, ascertain that the        telecommunications device is not moving,    -   in response thereto, ascertain that the subject is likely to be        resting on the resting surface, and    -   in response thereto, generate the output.        Inventive concept 44. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 42, wherein the processor is configured to:    -   by analyzing the sensor signal, ascertain that a person is        resting on the resting surface,    -   by analyzing the device-movement signal, ascertain that the        telecommunications device is moving,    -   in response thereto, ascertain that the subject is not likely to        be resting on the resting surface, and    -   in response thereto, generate the output.        Inventive concept 45. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 38-40, wherein the signal generated by the        handheld telecommunications device includes a usage signal        indicative of whether the telecommunications device is being        used, and wherein the processor is configured to:    -   identify the level of correspondence between the sensor signal        and the signal generated by the handheld telecommunications        device of the subject by identifying a correspondence between        the sensor signal and the usage signal, and    -   in response to the correspondence between the sensor signal and        the usage signal, generate the output.        Inventive concept 46. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 45, wherein the processor is configured to:    -   by analyzing the sensor signal, ascertain that a person is        resting on the resting surface,    -   by analyzing the usage signal, ascertain that the        telecommunications device is not being used,    -   in response thereto, ascertain that the subject is likely to be        resting on the resting surface, and    -   in response thereto, generate the output.        Inventive concept 47. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 45, wherein the processor is configured to:    -   by analyzing the sensor signal, ascertain that a person is on        the resting surface,    -   by analyzing the usage signal, ascertain that the        telecommunications device is being used,    -   in response thereto, ascertain that the subject is not likely to        be resting on the resting surface, and    -   in response thereto, generate the output.        Inventive concept 48. Apparatus for ascertaining that a subject        is likely to be resting on a resting surface, the apparatus        comprising:    -   a sensor configured to monitor a resting surface and to generate        a sensor signal in response thereto; and    -   a processor configured to:        -   by analyzing the sensor signal, ascertain that a person is            resting on the resting surface,        -   in response to a signal generated by a telecommunications            device of the subject, ascertain that the telecommunications            device is within a given distance of the resting surface,        -   in response thereto, ascertain that the subject is likely to            be resting on the resting surface, and        -   in response thereto, generate an output indicating that the            subject is likely to be resting on the resting surface.            Inventive concept 49. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 48,    -   wherein the processor is further configured to receive an input        indicative of coordinates of a location of the resting surface,    -   wherein the signal generated by the telecommunications device is        indicative of coordinates of a location of the        telecommunications device, and    -   wherein the processor is configured to ascertain that the        telecommunications device is within the given distance of the        resting surface by comparing the location of the        telecommunications device with the location of the resting        surface.        Inventive concept 50. Apparatus for controlling a        room-climate-regulation device, the apparatus comprising:    -   a sensor, configured to monitor a subject and generate a sensor        signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit, configured to:        -   analyze the signal,        -   in response thereto, identify a sleep stage of the subject,            and        -   in response to the identified sleep stage, control the            room-climate-regulation device by sending a control signal            to the room-climate-regulation device.            Inventive concept 51. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 50, wherein the sensor comprises a motion sensor            configured to sense motion of the subject.            Inventive concept 52. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 50, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            subject without contacting or viewing the subject, and            without contacting or viewing clothes the subject is            wearing.            Inventive concept 53. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 51, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor the            subject without contacting or viewing the subject, and            without contacting or viewing clothes the subject is            wearing.            Inventive concept 54. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 50-53,    -   wherein the control unit is further configured to ascertain, in        response to analyzing the sensor signal, that a sleep score of        the subject is lower than a baseline value,    -   wherein the apparatus further comprises a user interface,    -   wherein the control unit is configured to drive the user        interface to prompt the subject to use the user interface to        enter an input that includes at least one factor that may have        caused the sleep score to be lower than the baseline value, and    -   wherein the control unit is configured to control the        room-climate-regulation device in response to the input.        Inventive concept 55. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 50-53, wherein the control unit is configured        to control the room-climate-regulation device by controlling a        room-climate-regulation parameter selected from the group        consisting of: temperature, humidity, and fan speed.        Inventive concept 56. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 50-53, wherein the sensor is configured to        monitor the subject by monitoring a parameter of the subject        selected from the group consisting of: motion, heart rate, heart        rate variability, heartbeat amplitude, respiration rate,        respiration amplitude, respiration-cycle variability, tremor,        and left ventricular ejection time.        Inventive concept 57. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 50-53, wherein the control unit is further        configured to:    -   ascertain, in response to analyzing the sensor signal, a sleep        score of the subject, and,    -   in response to the sleep score, control the        room-climate-regulation device.        Inventive concept 58. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 50-53, wherein the control unit is further        configured to:    -   ascertain, in response to analyzing the sensor signal, a sleep        score of the subject, and,    -   in response to the sleep score, generate an output that includes        a suggested setting for the room-climate-regulation device.        Inventive concept 59. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 50-53, wherein the control unit is configured        to change a setting of the room-climate-regulation device in        response to a premature awakening of the subject.        Inventive concept 60. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 50-53, wherein the control unit is configured        to:    -   differentially identify at least two sleep stages selected from        the group consisting of: a falling-asleep stage, a        beginning-sleep stage, a mid-sleep stage, a premature-awakening        stage, an awakening stage, a light sleep stage, a slow-wave        sleep stage, and a rapid-eye-movement sleep stage, and    -   in response to the differentially identified sleep stages,        control the room-climate-regulation device by sending the        control signal to the room-climate-regulation device.        Inventive concept 61. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 50-53, wherein the control unit is configured        to, in response to the identified sleep stage, control a        noise-emission of the room-climate-regulation device even        without adjusting a temperature setting of the        room-climate-regulation device.        Inventive concept 62. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 61, wherein the room-climate-regulation device includes        a fan, and wherein the control unit is configured to control the        noise-emission of the room-climate-regulation device by        controlling a rotating speed of the fan.        Inventive concept 63. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 61, wherein the control unit is configured to control        the noise-emission of the room-climate-regulation device further        in response to an ambient noise level.        Inventive concept 64. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 61, wherein the control unit is configured to reduce a        noise level of the room-climate-regulation device in response to        the identified sleep stage being a slow-wave sleep stage.        Inventive concept 65. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 61, wherein the control unit is configured to increase a        noise level of the room-climate-regulation device in response to        the identified sleep stage being a slow-wave sleep stage.        Inventive concept 66. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 61, wherein the control unit is configured to reduce a        noise level of the room-climate-regulation device in response to        the identified sleep stage not being a slow-wave sleep stage.        Inventive concept 67. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 61, wherein the control unit is configured to increase a        noise level of the room-climate-regulation device in response to        the identified sleep stage not being a slow-wave sleep stage.        Inventive concept 68. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 61, wherein the control unit is configured to control a        frequency of emitted noise of the room-climate-regulation device        in response to (a) the identified sleep stage, and (b) a rate        selected from the group consisting of: a heart rate of the        subject, and a respiratory rate of the subject.        Inventive concept 69. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 50-53, wherein the control unit is configured        to, in response to the identified sleep stage, control a        temperature setting of the room-climate-regulation device.        Inventive concept 70. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 69, wherein the control unit is configured to lower the        temperature setting of the room-climate-regulation device in        response to the identified sleep stage being a        rapid-eye-movement sleep stage.        Inventive concept 71. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 69, wherein the control unit is configured to:    -   by analyzing the signal, identify an indication of a body        temperature of the subject, and    -   in response to the indication, control the temperature setting.        Inventive concept 72. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 71, wherein the control unit is configured to:    -   by analyzing the signal, ascertain that the subject is        uncomfortable with a current ambient temperature, and    -   in response to the ascertaining, control the temperature        setting.        Inventive concept 73. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 71, wherein the control unit is configured to ascertain        that the subject is uncomfortable with the current ambient        temperature by identifying a tremor component of the signal.        Inventive concept 74. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 50-53, further comprising a user interface        configured to accept an input from the subject, the input        including at least two distinct settings for the        room-climate-regulation device corresponding to respective        different sleep stages,    -   wherein the control unit is configured to control the        room-climate-regulation device in response to the input.        Inventive concept 75. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 74, wherein the control unit is further configured to        drive the user interface to prompt the subject to enter the        input, in response to a change in a parameter selected from the        group consisting of: a season, an ambient temperature, an        ambient humidity, and a going-to-sleep time.        Inventive concept 76. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 74, wherein the sensor is further configured to sense a        weight of a blanket of the subject, and wherein the control unit        is further configured to drive the user interface to prompt the        subject to enter the input, in response to a change in the        sensed weight.        Inventive concept 77. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 74, wherein the control unit is further configured to:    -   ascertain, in response to analyzing the sensor signal, a sleep        score of the subject, and    -   drive the user interface to prompt the subject to enter the        input, in response to the ascertained sleep score being lower        than a baseline value.        Inventive concept 78. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 77, wherein the control unit is configured to ascertain        the sleep score by computing a score from at least one parameter        selected from the group consisting of: a time to fall asleep, a        duration of sleep, a percentage of in-bed time during which the        subject is sleeping, and a measure of relaxation of the subject.        Inventive concept 79. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 50-53, wherein the control unit is configured        to:    -   for each of a plurality of different settings of the        room-climate-regulation device, ascertain, in response to        analyzing the sensor signal, a sleep score of the subject; and    -   in response thereto, generate an output indicative of a setting        that is conducive to a higher sleep score, relative to other        settings.        Inventive concept 80. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 79, further comprising a user interface configured to        accept an input from the subject, wherein the control unit is        configured to set the plurality of different settings in        response to the input.        Inventive concept 81. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 79, wherein the control unit is configured to set the        plurality of different settings even without any deliberate        input from the subject.        Inventive concept 82. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 50-53,    -   wherein the subject is a first subject who shares a room with a        second subject,    -   wherein the apparatus further comprises a second sensor,        configured to monitor the second subject and generate a second        sensor signal in response thereto, and    -   wherein the control unit is configured to:        -   analyze the second sensor signal,        -   in response thereto, identify a sleep stage of the second            subject, and        -   in response to the respective identified sleep stages of the            subjects, control the room-climate-regulation device by            sending a control signal to the room-climate-regulation            device.            Inventive concept 83. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 82,    -   wherein the apparatus is for use with a room-climate-regulation        device that can simultaneously maintain a first setting in a        vicinity of the first subject, and a second setting, which is        different from the first setting, in a vicinity of the second        subject,    -   the control unit being configured to control the        room-climate-regulation device by communicating the first and        second settings to the room-climate-regulation device.        Inventive concept 84. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 82, wherein the control unit is further configured to:    -   ascertain, in response to analyzing the sensor signals,        respective sleep scores of the subjects, and    -   in response to the respective sleep scores, control the        room-climate-regulation device.        Inventive concept 85. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 84, wherein the control unit is configured to:    -   determine a setting of the room-climate-regulation device that        facilitates respective sleep scores of the subjects being equal        to one another, and    -   control the room-climate-regulation device by communicating the        setting to the room-climate-regulation device.        Inventive concept 86. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 84, wherein the control unit is configured to:    -   determine a setting of the room-climate-regulation device, in        response to an average sleep score of the subjects, and    -   control the room-climate-regulation device by communicating the        setting to the room-climate-regulation device.        Inventive concept 87. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 86, wherein the control unit is configured to:    -   determine a setting of the room-climate-regulation device that        maximizes the average sleep score of the subjects, a higher        sleep score being indicative of a more restful sleeping session        relative to a lower sleep score, and    -   control the room-climate-regulation device by communicating the        setting to the room-climate-regulation device.        Inventive concept 88. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 86,    -   wherein the setting is a first setting, and    -   wherein, in response to one of the subjects having fallen        asleep, the control unit is configured to communicate a second        setting to the room-climate-regulation device, the second        setting being different from the first setting.        Inventive concept 89. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 82, wherein the control unit is configured to:    -   communicate a first setting to the room-climate-regulation        device in response to one of the sensor signals indicating that        one of the subjects is trying to fall asleep, the first setting        being more conducive to sleep of the one of the subjects,        relative to other settings, and    -   subsequently, in response to the sensor signals indicating        that (a) the one of the subjects has fallen asleep, and (b) the        other one of the subjects is trying to fall asleep, communicate        a second setting to the room-climate-regulation device, the        second setting being different from the first setting.        Inventive concept 90. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 89, wherein the control unit is configured to generate        an output to the other one of the subjects, the output        indicating that the one of the subjects has fallen asleep.        Inventive concept 91. Apparatus for controlling a        thermoregulation device, the apparatus comprising:    -   a motion sensor, configured to monitor a subject and generate a        motion signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit, configured to:        -   analyze the motion signal, and        -   in response thereto, control a temperature setting of the            thermoregulation device.            Inventive concept 92. Apparatus for use with a            room-climate-regulation device, the apparatus comprising:    -   a sensor, configured to monitor a subject and to generate a        sensor signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit, configured to:        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   in response thereto, identify a rate selected from the group            consisting of: a heart rate of the subject, and a            respiratory rate of the subject, and        -   control a property of emitted noise of the            room-climate-regulation device in response to the identified            rate, the property being selected from the group consisting            of: a frequency, and a phase-shift.            Inventive concept 93. Apparatus for use with a vibrating            mechanism, the apparatus comprising:    -   a sensor, configured to monitor a subject on a resting surface        and generate a sensor signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit, configured to:        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   in response thereto, identify a posture of the subject, and        -   in response to the identified posture, drive the vibrating            mechanism to vibrate.            Inventive concept 94. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 93, wherein the control unit is further configured            to, in response to analyzing the sensor signal, identify a            sleep stage of the subject, and wherein the control unit is            configured to drive the vibrating mechanism to vibrate,            further in response to the identified sleep stage.            Inventive concept 95. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 94, wherein the control unit is configured to drive            the vibrating mechanism to vibrate in response to the            identified sleep stage being selected from the group            consisting of: a sleep stage that is within 5 minutes of an            onset of a rapid-eye-movement sleep stage, and a sleep stage            that is within 5 minutes of an end of a rapid-eye-movement            sleep stage.            Inventive concept 96. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 93-95,    -   wherein the sensor is a first sensor and the sensor signal is a        first sensor signal,    -   wherein the apparatus further comprises a second sensor        configured to monitor a partner of the subject and generate a        second sensor signal in response thereto,    -   wherein the control unit is further configured to analyze the        second sensor signal and, in response thereto, identify a sleep        stage of the partner, and    -   wherein the control unit is configured to drive the vibrating        mechanism to vibrate, further in response to the identified        sleep stage of the partner.        Inventive concept 97. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 93-95,    -   wherein the control unit is further configured to identify an        episode of the subject selected from the group consisting of: a        snoring episode, and an apnea episode, and    -   wherein the control unit is configured to drive the vibrating        mechanism to vibrate, further in response to the identified        episode.        Inventive concept 98. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 93-95, wherein the vibrating mechanism        includes a vibrating wristwatch, and the control unit is        configured to drive the vibrating mechanism to vibrate by        driving the vibrating wristwatch to vibrate.        Inventive concept 99. Apparatus for use with an adjustable        resting surface, the apparatus comprising:    -   a sensor, configured to monitor a subject on the resting surface        and generate a sensor signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit, configured to:        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   in response thereto, identify a posture of the subject, and        -   in response to the identified posture, adjust a parameter of            the resting surface by communicating a signal to the resting            surface.            Inventive concept 100. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 99, wherein the control unit is configured to, in            response to the identified posture, adjust an angle of the            resting surface.            Inventive concept 101. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 99, wherein the control unit is further configured            to, in response to analyzing the sensor signal, identify a            sleep stage of the subject, and wherein the control unit is            configured to adjust the parameter of the resting surface,            further in response to the identified sleep stage.            Inventive concept 102. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 101, wherein the control unit is configured to            adjust the parameter of the resting surface in response to            the identified sleep stage being selected from the group            consisting of: a sleep stage that is within 5 minutes of an            onset of a rapid-eye-movement sleep stage, and a sleep stage            that is within 5 minutes of an end of a rapid-eye-movement            sleep stage.            Inventive concept 103. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 99-102,    -   wherein the sensor is a first sensor and the sensor signal is a        first sensor signal,    -   wherein the apparatus further comprises a second sensor        configured to monitor a partner of the subject and generate a        second sensor signal in response thereto,    -   wherein the control unit is further configured to analyze the        second sensor signal and, in response thereto, identify a sleep        stage of the partner, and    -   wherein the control unit is configured to adjust the parameter        of the resting surface, further in response to the identified        sleep stage of the partner.        Inventive concept 104. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 99-102,    -   wherein the control unit is further configured to identify an        episode of the subject selected from the group consisting of: a        snoring episode, and an apnea episode, and    -   wherein the control unit is configured to adjust the parameter        of the resting surface, further in response to the identified        episode.        Inventive concept 105. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 99-102,    -   wherein the control unit is further configured to identify a        coughing episode of the subject, and    -   wherein the control unit is configured to adjust the parameter        of the resting surface, further in response to the identified        coughing episode.        Inventive concept 106. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 105, wherein the adjustable resting surface includes an        inflatable pillow, and the control unit is configured to adjust        a parameter of the resting surface by adjusting a parameter of        the inflatable pillow.        Inventive concept 107. A method for monitoring a subject, the        method comprising:    -   using a motion sensor located in a vehicle, in a seat of the        subject, sensing physiological activity of the subject, and        generating a motion signal in response thereto; and    -   using a control unit:        -   analyzing the motion signal; and        -   generating an output in response thereto.            Inventive concept 108. The method according to inventive            concept 107, wherein the vehicle is an airplane, the method            comprising using the motion sensor in the airplane.            Inventive concept 109. The method according to inventive            concept 107 or 108, wherein analyzing the motion signal            comprises identifying a likelihood of a clinical event of            the subject, and wherein generating the output comprises            generating an alert in response to the identified            likelihood.            Inventive concept 110. The method according to inventive            concept 107 or 108, wherein analyzing the motion signal            comprises identifying a likelihood that the subject is a            carrier of a disease, and wherein generating the output            comprises generating an alert in response to the identified            likelihood.            Inventive concept 111. The method according to inventive            concept 107 or 108, wherein analyzing the motion signal            comprises identifying that the subject is drowsy, and    -   wherein generating the output comprises generating an alert in        response to identifying that the subject is drowsy.        Inventive concept 112. The method according to inventive concept        107 or 108, wherein analyzing the motion signal comprises        identifying that the subject is sleeping, and wherein generating        the output comprises generating the output in response to        identifying that the subject is sleeping.        Inventive concept 113. The method according to inventive concept        107 or 108, wherein analyzing the motion signal comprises        identifying an elevated stress level of the subject, and wherein        generating the output comprises generating an alert in response        to the elevated stress level.        Inventive concept 114. The method according to inventive concept        113,    -   wherein the vehicle includes a multi-person vehicle,    -   the method further comprising:        -   using at least one other motion sensor located in the            vehicle, in a seat of another subject, sensing physiological            activity of the other subject, and generating another motion            signal in response thereto; and        -   using the control unit, analyzing the other motion signal,            and, in response thereto, identifying an elevated stress            level of the other subject,        -   wherein generating the output comprises generating an alert            in response to each of the subjects having an elevated            stress level.            Inventive concept 115. A method for monitoring a subject,            the method comprising:    -   using a motion sensor located in a casino, in a seat of the        subject, sensing physiological activity of the subject, and        generating a motion signal in response thereto; and    -   using a control unit:        -   analyzing the motion signal; and        -   generating an alert in response thereto.            Inventive concept 116. The method according to inventive            concept 115, wherein analyzing the motion signal comprises            identifying an elevated stress level of the subject, and            wherein generating the alert comprises generating an alert            in response to the elevated stress level.            Inventive concept 117. The method according to inventive            concept 116, further comprising:    -   using at least one other motion sensor located in the casino, in        a seat of another subject, sensing physiological activity of the        other subject, and generating another motion signal in response        thereto; and    -   using the control unit, analyzing the other motion signal, and,        in response thereto, identifying an elevated stress level of the        other subject,    -   wherein generating the alert comprises generating an alert in        response to each of the subjects having an elevated stress        level.        Inventive concept 118. Apparatus for use with (i) a plurality of        subjects sharing a common area, and (ii) a controllable        mechanism, the apparatus comprising:    -   one or more physiological sensors configured to monitor        conditions of the subjects and to generate, in response thereto,        a respective sensor signal for each one of the subjects; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the sensor signals,        -   in response to analyzing the sensor signals, determine a            prioritization of the condition of one of the subjects over            the condition of another one of the subjects,        -   in response to the prioritization, decide whether to control            the controllable mechanism, and        -   in response to (i) the prioritization, and (ii) deciding to            control the controllable mechanism, control the controllable            mechanism by communicating a control signal to the            controllable mechanism.            Inventive concept 119. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 118, wherein the controllable mechanism is a            room-climate-regulation device, the control unit being            configured to control the room-climate-regulation device.            Inventive concept 120. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 118, wherein the controllable mechanism is an            adjustable resting surface, the control unit being            configured to control the adjustable resting surface.            Inventive concept 121. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 118, wherein the controllable mechanism is a            sound-playing device, the control unit being configured to            control the sound-playing device.            Inventive concept 122. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 118, wherein the controllable mechanism is an            illumination device, the control unit being configured to            control the illumination device.            Inventive concept 123. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 118, wherein the control unit is configured to            determine the prioritization in response to determining            that (a) one of the subjects is sleeping, and (b) another            one of the subjects is not sleeping.            Inventive concept 124. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 118, further comprising a user interface configured            to accept an input from a user, wherein the control unit is            configured to determine the prioritization further in            response to the input.            Inventive concept 125. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 118, wherein the control unit is configured to            determine the prioritization in response to a health            condition of at least one of the subjects.            Inventive concept 126. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 125, further comprising at least one            body-temperature sensor configured to (i) detect a body            temperature of the at least one of the subjects, and (ii)            generate a body-temperature signal in response thereto,            wherein the control unit is further configured to determine            the health condition of the at least one of the subjects in            response to the body-temperature signal.            Inventive concept 127. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 118-126,    -   wherein the physiological sensors are configured to monitor        comfort of the subjects, and    -   wherein the control unit is configured to determine the        prioritization by determining a prioritization of comfort of one        of the subjects over comfort of another one of the subjects.        Inventive concept 128. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 118-126,    -   wherein the physiological sensors are configured to monitor        sleep of the subjects, and    -   wherein the control unit is configured to determine the        prioritization by determining a prioritization of sleep of one        of the subjects over sleep of another one of the subjects.        Inventive concept 129. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 128,    -   wherein controlling the controllable mechanism in a particular        manner is (i) facilitative to sleep of a first one of the        subjects, and (ii) at least potentially detrimental to sleep of        a second one of the subjects, and    -   wherein the control unit is configured to control the        controllable mechanism in the particular manner only if the        prioritization indicates that the sleep of the first one of the        subjects is to be prioritized over sleep of the second one of        the subjects.        Inventive concept 130. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 128, wherein the controllable mechanism is a vibrating        mechanism, the control unit being configured to control the        vibrating mechanism.        Inventive concept 131. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 128,    -   wherein the control unit is configured to, in response to        analyzing the sensor signals, determine that (i) one of the        subjects is snoring, and (ii) another one of the subjects may be        disturbed by the snoring,    -   wherein controlling the controllable mechanism includes        activating a snoring-inhibition mechanism that is disruptive to        sleep of the snoring subject, and    -   wherein the control unit is configured to activate the        snoring-inhibition mechanism, unless the prioritization        indicates that sleep of the snoring subject is to be prioritized        over sleep of the other one of the subjects.        Inventive concept 132. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 128, wherein the control unit is configured to:    -   identify respective sleep stages of the subjects in response to        analyzing the sensor signals, and    -   determine the prioritization in response to identifying the        respective sleep stages.        Inventive concept 133. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 132,    -   wherein controlling the controllable mechanism in a particular        manner is (i) facilitative to sleep of a first one of the        subjects, and (ii) at least potentially detrimental to sleep of        a second one of the subjects, and    -   wherein the control unit is configured to control the        controllable mechanism in the particular manner only if the        second one of the subjects is not sleeping deeply.        Inventive concept 134. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 132,    -   wherein each of the respective sleep stages is selected from the        group consisting of: a slow-wave sleep stage, a        rapid-eye-movement sleep stage, a light sleep stage, and an        awake sleep stage,    -   wherein the control unit is configured to assign:        -   a first rank to a sleep stage selected from the group            consisting of: a slow-wave sleep stage, and a            rapid-eye-movement sleep stage,        -   a second rank, which is greater than the first rank, to a            sleep stage that is not assigned the first rank and that is            selected from the group consisting of: the slow-wave sleep            stage, and the rapid-eye-movement sleep stage,        -   a third rank, which is greater than the second rank, to a            light sleep stage, and        -   a fourth rank, which is greater than the third rank, to an            awake sleep stage, and    -   wherein a likelihood of the control unit prioritizing the sleep        of a first subject over the sleep of a second subject increases        with the rank of the sleep stage of the first subject.        Inventive concept 135. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 132,    -   wherein each of the respective sleep stages is selected from the        group consisting of: a slow-wave sleep stage, a        rapid-eye-movement sleep stage, a light sleep stage, and an        awake sleep stage,    -   wherein the control unit is configured to assign:        -   a first rank to a sleep stage selected from the group            consisting of: a slow-wave sleep stage, and a            rapid-eye-movement sleep stage,        -   a second rank, which is greater than the first rank, to a            sleep stage that is not assigned the first rank and that is            selected from the group consisting of: the slow-wave sleep            stage, and the rapid-eye-movement sleep stage,        -   a third rank, which is greater than the second rank, to a            light sleep stage, and        -   a fourth rank, which is greater than the third rank, to an            awake sleep stage, and    -   wherein a likelihood of the control unit prioritizing the sleep        of a first subject over the sleep of a second subject decreases        with the rank of the sleep stage of the first subject.        Inventive concept 136. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 128, wherein the control unit is configured to:    -   in response to analyzing the sensor signals over a plurality of        sleeping sessions, identify, for each of the subjects, a        sleep-sensitivity of the subject to at least one phenomenon that        is generally detrimental to sleep, and    -   determine the prioritization in response to the identified        sleep-sensitivities.        Inventive concept 137. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 136, wherein the control unit is configured to identify        the sleep-sensitivity of each of the subjects by identifying an        effect of the phenomenon on a parameter selected from the group        consisting of: a duration of sleep of the subject, and a quality        of sleep of the subject.        Inventive concept 138. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 136, wherein the control unit is configured to be more        likely to prioritize the sleep of a first one of the subjects        over the sleep of a second one of the subjects if the        sleep-sensitivity of the first subject is higher than the        sleep-sensitivity of the second subject, relative to if the        sleep-sensitivity of the first subject were not higher than the        sleep-sensitivity of the second subject.        Inventive concept 139. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 128, wherein the control unit is configured to:    -   in response to analyzing the sensor signals, calculate, at a        particular time, a sleep score for each of the subjects, the        sleep score being based on a parameter selected from the group        consisting of: a duration of sleep during an interval preceding        the particular time, and a quality of sleep during an interval        preceding the particular time, and    -   determine the prioritization in response to the respective sleep        scores.        Inventive concept 140. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 139, wherein, at the particular time, the control unit        is configured to be more likely to prioritize sleep of a first        one of the subjects over sleep of a second one of the subjects        if the sleep score of the first one of the subjects is lower        than the sleep score of the second one of the subjects, relative        to if the sleep score of the first one of the subjects were not        lower than the sleep score of the second one of the subjects.        Inventive concept 141. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 139, wherein controlling the controllable mechanism in a        particular manner is (i) facilitative to sleep of a first one of        the subjects, and (ii) at least potentially detrimental to sleep        of a second one of the subjects, and    -   wherein the control unit is configured to control the        controllable mechanism in the particular manner and at the        particular time, in response to the sleep score of the first one        of the subjects being lower than a threshold.        Inventive concept 142. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 141, wherein the control unit is configured to:    -   identify respective sleep stages of the subjects in response to        analyzing the sensor signals, and    -   control the controllable mechanism in the particular manner and        at the particular time in response to the sleep score of the        first one of the subjects being lower than the threshold, only        if the first one of the subjects is not sleeping deeply.        Inventive concept 143. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 142, wherein the control unit is configured to control        the controllable mechanism in the particular manner and at the        particular time in response to the sleep score of the first one        of the subjects being lower than the threshold, only if (i) the        first one of the subjects is not sleeping deeply, and (ii) the        second one of the subjects is not sleeping deeply.        Inventive concept 144. Apparatus for use with an alarm clock for        waking a subject, the apparatus comprising:    -   a sensor configured to monitor a resting surface, and to        generate a signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the signal,        -   in response thereto, determine that, even if the resting            surface is occupied by someone, the resting surface is            likely not being occupied by the subject, and        -   in response thereto, inhibit the alarm clock from generating            an alarm.            Inventive concept 145. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 144, wherein the control unit is further configured            to stop inhibiting the alarm clock from generating an alarm,            in response to determining that the resting surface is            likely being occupied by the subject.            Inventive concept 146. Apparatus for use with an alarm clock            for waking a subject, the apparatus comprising:    -   a sensor configured to monitor a resting surface, and to        generate a signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit, separate from the alarm clock, and configured,        following a first alarm generated by the alarm clock, to:        -   analyze the signal,        -   in response to analyzing the signal, determine that the            resting surface is likely being occupied by the subject, and        -   in response thereto, drive the alarm clock to generate a            second alarm.            Inventive concept 147. Apparatus for use with (i) a first            subject and a second subject sharing a common sleep area,            and (ii) an alarm clock, the apparatus comprising:    -   a sensor configured to monitor the second subject and to        generate a sensor signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   accept an input indicative of (i) an earliest desired            awakening time, and (ii) a latest desired awakening time,            for the first subject, and        -   at a time between the earliest desired awakening time and            the latest desired awakening time:            -   analyze the sensor signal,            -   in response thereto, determine a sleep stage of the                second subject,            -   in response to the sleep stage of the second subject,                determine whether to drive the alarm clock to generate                an alarm at the time, and            -   in response to determining to drive the alarm clock to                generate an alarm, drive the alarm clock to generate an                alarm.                Inventive concept 148. The apparatus according to                inventive concept 147, wherein the control unit is                configured to:    -   in response to analyzing the sensor signal over a plurality of        sleeping sessions, identify a sleep-sensitivity of the second        subject to at least one phenomenon that is generally detrimental        to sleep, and    -   in response to the identified sleep-sensitivity, determine        whether to drive the alarm clock to generate the alarm.        Inventive concept 149. The apparatus according to inventive        concept 148, wherein the control unit is configured to identify        the sleep-sensitivity of the second subject by identifying an        effect of the phenomenon on a parameter selected from the group        consisting of: a duration of sleep of the second subject, and a        quality of sleep of the second subject.        Inventive concept 150. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 147-149, wherein the control unit is        configured to:    -   in response to analyzing the sensor signal, calculate a sleep        score for the second subject, the sleep score being based on a        parameter selected from the group consisting of: a duration of        sleep during an interval preceding the particular time, and a        quality of sleep during an interval preceding the particular        time, and    -   in response to the sleep score, determine whether to drive the        alarm clock to generate the alarm.        Inventive concept 151. The apparatus according to any one of        inventive concepts 147-149, wherein the control unit is        configured to determine whether to drive the alarm clock to        generate the alarm, in response to a health condition of the        second subject.        Inventive concept 152. Apparatus comprising:    -   a sensor configured to measure a clinical parameter of a        patient, and to generate a signal in response thereto;    -   a control unit configured to:        -   receive the signal from the sensor,        -   compare the clinical parameter to a threshold, and        -   in response to the comparison, generate an alert to a            clinician; and    -   a user interface configured to receive an input from the        clinician, the input indicating whether the clinician believes        the alert to have been justified,    -   the control unit being configured to adjust the threshold in        response to the input.        Inventive concept 153. Apparatus for use with (i) a common area        that is shared by a plurality of subjects, and (ii) a        controllable mechanism, the apparatus comprising:    -   at least one sensor configured to monitor the common area and to        generate a sensor signal in response thereto; and    -   a control unit configured to:        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   in response to analyzing the sensor signal, determine which            subjects of the plurality of subjects are present in the            common area, and        -   in response to the determining, control the controllable            mechanism by communicating a control signal to the            controllable mechanism.            Inventive concept 154. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 153, wherein the controllable mechanism is a            room-climate-regulation device, the control unit being            configured to control the room-climate-regulation device.            Inventive concept 155. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 153, wherein the common area is a common sleeping            area, the control unit being configured, in response to            analyzing the sensor signal, to determine which subjects of            the plurality of subjects are present in the common sleeping            area.            Inventive concept 156. The apparatus according to any one of            inventive concepts 153-155,    -   wherein the plurality of subjects consists of a first subject        and a second subject,    -   wherein the controllable mechanism has at least three settings        that are distinct from one another, and    -   wherein the control unit is configured to:        -   in response to determining that the first subject, but not            the second subject, is present in the common area, set the            controllable mechanism to a first of the settings by            communicating the control signal to the controllable            mechanism,        -   in response to determining that the second subject, but not            the first subject, is present in the common area, set the            controllable mechanism to a second of the settings by            communicating the control signal to the controllable            mechanism, and        -   in response to determining that the first and second            subjects are present in the common area, set the            controllable mechanism to a third of the settings by            communicating the control signal to the controllable            mechanism.            Inventive concept 157. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 156, wherein the third of the settings is an            intermediate setting between the first and second settings,            the control unit being configured to set the controllable            mechanism to the intermediate setting in response to            determining that the first and second subjects are present            in the common area.            Inventive concept 158. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 156, wherein the control unit is further configured            to establish the first of the distinct settings, the second            of the distinct settings, and the third of the distinct            settings, in response to analyzing the sensor signal.            Inventive concept 159. Apparatus for monitoring a subject,            the apparatus comprising:    -   a sensor, configured to monitor the subject during a sleeping        session of the subject, and to generate a sensor signal in        response to the monitoring; and    -   a control unit, configured to:        -   analyze the sensor signal,        -   in response to analyzing the sensor signal, identify an end            of a chronologically-first sleep cycle of the subject during            the sleeping session,        -   in response to analyzing the sensor signal, identify an            aspect of the sensor signal exhibited following the end of            the chronologically-first sleep cycle,        -   identify a physiological condition of the subject (i) in            response to the aspect of the sensor signal that is            exhibited following the end of the chronologically-first            sleep cycle, and (ii) substantially not in response to any            aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited before the end            of the chronologically-first sleep cycle, and        -   generate an output indicative of the physiological            condition.            Inventive concept 160. The apparatus according to inventive            concept 159, wherein the control unit is configured to:    -   in response to analyzing the sensor signal, identify an end of a        chronologically-second sleep cycle of the subject during the        sleeping session,    -   in response to analyzing the sensor signal, identify an aspect        of the sensor signal exhibited following the end of the        chronologically-second sleep cycle, and    -   identify the physiological condition of the subject (i) in        response to the aspect of the sensor signal that is exhibited        following the end of the chronologically-second sleep cycle,        and (ii) substantially not in response to any aspect of the        sensor signal that is exhibited before the end of the        chronologically-second sleep cycle.

Techniques described herein may be practiced in combination withtechniques described in one or more of the following patents and patentapplications, which are incorporated herein by reference. In someapplications, techniques and apparatus described in one or more of thefollowing applications are combined with techniques and apparatusdescribed herein:

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It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the presentinvention is not limited to what has been particularly shown anddescribed hereinabove. Rather, the scope of the present inventionincludes both combinations and subcombinations of the various featuresdescribed hereinabove, as well as variations and modifications thereofthat are not in the prior art, which would occur to persons skilled inthe art upon reading the foregoing description.

The invention claimed is:
 1. An apparatus for use with a plurality ofpatients requiring respective care-provision tasks, the apparatuscomprising: a plurality of sleep sensors automatically monitoring aplurality of patients and generating a plurality of signals in responsethereto, without contacting the respective patients; a plurality oflocation sensors identifying respective locations of a plurality ofcare-providers, and generating location-sensing signals in responsethereto; a controllable mechanism adjustable to alter a patient'senvironment to improve the a sleep quality of at least one of theplurality of patients; a user interface, and a care-provisionprioritization control unit receiving the signals from the plurality ofsleep sensors, receiving location-sensing signals from the plurality oflocation sensors, and providing control signals to control the operationof the controllable mechanism, the care-provision prioritization controlunit analyzing the signals from the sleep sensors to ascertainrespective sleep stages of the patients, controlling the controllablemechanism to alter a patient's environment to improve the sleep qualityfor at least a first patient of the plurality of patients if thecare-provision prioritization control unit determines that the sleep ofthe first patient of the plurality of patients is to be prioritized oversleep of a second patient of the plurality of patients, analyzing thelocation-sensing signals to determine a prioritization of at least oneof the care-provision tasks of the first patient of the plurality ofpatients over at least one other of the care-provision tasks of thesecond patient of the plurality of patients based on the sleep stage ofeach of the respective patients and the respective locations of theplurality of care-providers, and generating an output to a care-giverindicating the prioritization of the care-provision tasks, wherein theoutput is communicated to the user interface.
 2. The apparatus accordingto claim 1, wherein the plurality of sleep sensors comprises a pluralityof motion sensors.
 3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: theplurality of sleep sensors are configured to monitor a respective heartrate of each of the patients and to generate a plurality of heart ratesignals in response thereto, and the care-provision prioritizationcontrol unit ascertains the respective sleep stages of the patients by(i) analyzing the heart rate signals generated in response to therespective heart rate of each of the patients, and (ii) identifying therespective sleep stages of the patients in response to analyzing theheart rate signals.
 4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: theplurality of sleep sensors monitor a respective breathing rate of eachof the patients and generate a plurality of breathing rate signals inresponse thereto, and the care-provision prioritization control unitascertains the respective sleep stages of the patients by (i) analyzingthe breathing rate signals generated in response to the respectivebreathing rate of each of the patients, and (ii) identifying therespective sleep stages of the patients in response to analyzing thebreathing rate signals.
 5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:each of the respective sleep stages is selected from the groupconsisting of: a slow-wave sleep stage, a rapid-eye-movement sleepstage, a light sleep stage, and an awake sleep stage, and wherein thecare-provision prioritization control unit is determines theprioritization by: assigning a first prioritization level to a sleepstage selected from the group consisting of: a slow-wave sleep stage,and a rapid-eye-movement sleep stage, assigning a second prioritizationlevel to a sleep stage selected from the group consisting of: a lightsleep stage, and an awake sleep stage, and determining theprioritization of the at least one of the care-provision tasks over theat least one other of the care-provision tasks comprises prioritizing(i) at least one of the care provision tasks required by a patient whosesleep stage prioritization level is the second prioritization level,over (ii) the at least one other of the care-provision tasks required bya patient whose sleep stage prioritization level is the firstprioritization level.
 6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:each of the respective sleep stages is selected from the groupconsisting of: a slow-wave sleep stage, a rapid-eye-movement sleepstage, a light sleep stage, and an awake sleep stage, and wherein thecare-provision prioritization control unit determines the prioritizationby: assigning a first rank to a sleep stage selected from the groupconsisting of: a slow-wave sleep stage, and a rapid-eye-movement sleepstage, assigning a second rank, which is greater than the first rank, toa sleep stage that is not assigned the first rank and that is selectedfrom the group consisting of: the slow-wave sleep stage, and therapid-eye-movement sleep stage, assigning a third rank, which is greaterthan the second rank, to a light sleep stage, assigning a fourth rank,which is greater than the third rank, to an awake sleep stage, anddetermining the prioritization of the at least one of the care-provisiontasks over the at least one other of the care-provision tasks comprisesprioritizing (i) at least one of the care-provision tasks required by apatient whose sleep stage rank is higher than the sleep stage rank of apatient requiring the at last one other of the care-provision tasks,over (ii) the at least one other of the care-provision tasks.
 7. Theapparatus according to claim 1, wherein the care-provisionprioritization control unit prioritizes (i) at least one of thecare-provision tasks required by a patient who is sleeping more heavilythan a patient requiring the at least one other of the care-provisiontasks, over (ii) the at least one other of the care-provision tasks. 8.The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein: the plurality of sleepsensors: monitor respective time-sensitive factors for the patientsderived from the signals, and generate time-sensitive signals inresponse thereto; and the care-provision prioritization control unit:analyzes the time-sensitive signals, and determines the prioritizationfurther in response to analyzing the time-sensitive signals.
 9. Theapparatus according to claim 8, wherein the plurality of sleep sensors(i) monitor respective heartbeats of the patients, and (ii) generaterespective heartbeat signals for the patients, and wherein thecare-provision prioritization control unit (i) analyzes the respectiveheartbeat signals and (ii) determines the prioritization further inresponse to analyzing the respective heartbeat signals.
 10. Theapparatus according to claim 8, wherein the plurality of sleep sensors(i) monitor respective respiratory rates for the patients and (ii)generate respective respiratory signals for the patients, and whereinthe care-provision prioritization control unit (i) analyzes therespective respiratory signals and (ii) determines the prioritizationfurther in response to analyzing the respective respiratory signals. 11.The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the care-provisionprioritization control unit prioritizes (i) at least one of thecare-provision tasks over (ii) at least one other of the care-provisiontasks wherein the at least one of the care-provision tasks is requiredby a first patient and the at least one other of the care-provisiontasks is required by a second patient, and wherein the first patient islocated farther away from a care-provider than the second patient. 12.The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the controllable mechanismcomprises a snoring inhibition mechanism.
 13. The apparatus according toclaim 1, wherein the controllable mechanism comprises a vibratingmechanism.
 14. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein thecontrollable mechanism comprises an adjustable resting surface.
 15. Theapparatus according to claim 1, wherein the controllable mechanismcomprises a sound-playing device.
 16. The apparatus according to claim1, wherein the controllable mechanism comprises a room-climateregulation device.
 17. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein thecontrollable mechanism comprises an illumination device.
 18. Theapparatus according to claim 1, wherein the controllable mechanismcomprises an adjustable pillow.
 19. The apparatus according to claim 9,wherein the controllable mechanism comprises an adjustable restingsurface.
 20. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein thecontrollable mechanism comprises an adjustable resting surface.